Chicken Mathbi – Chicken Mathbi Recipe – How to Cook Chicken Mathbi

Chicken Mathbi – Chicken Mathbi Recipe – How to Cook Chicken Mathbi

Chicken Mathbi is a traditional dish offered by the rich and diverse Yemeni cuisine, which is famous for its many delicious meals.

This dish originates from Hadramaut in Yemen and the Asir region in the south of Saudi Arabia. From Yemen, it spread to neighboring Gulf countries, becoming a staple in Gulf Arab cuisine. Over time, it didn’t remain confined to the Gulf; Yemenis brought it with them wherever they settled, making it known worldwide.

Mathbi is often prepared for feasts and special occasions because of its high nutritional value. It provides the body with energy due to its calorie content and contains a range of essential minerals.

Ingredients for Chicken Mathbi (serves five people):

 

For the chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces

• 4 cloves of garlic

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon chili powder

For the rice:

• 2 cups soaked and drained rice

• 2 cups water

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons butter

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 4 cardamom pods

• 5 cloves

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon saffron

How to Cook Chicken Mathbi:

First, place the chicken pieces in a bowl and squeeze the lemon juice over them. Rub the chicken with the crushed garlic, then sprinkle with a little salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Let the chicken marinate for about one hour.

Next, melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add the rice and stir until the ingredients are well combined and the rice becomes translucent.

Transfer the rice to an oven-safe baking dish. Add the water, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and sprinkle the saffron over the top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and poke a few small holes in the foil. Place the marinated chicken pieces on top.

Cover the chicken and dish completely with another layer of aluminum foil, then bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Finally, remove from the oven, transfer to serving plates, and enjoy this flavorful Yemeni specialty with your family.