Dajaj bil Riz bil Sharieh (Syrian Chicken and Rice with Vermicelli)
A fragrant and comforting one-pot dish featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and toasted vermicelli noodles, seasoned with aromatic spices. This simplified version focuses on ease of preparation while retaining authentic flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup Vermicelli noodles(broken into small pieces)
- 1.5 cups Basmati rice(rinsed well)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 cups Chicken broth(low sodium)
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Cardamom(ground)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Toasted slivered almonds(for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 3
Add the broken vermicelli noodles to the pot and toast, stirring constantly, until golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
- 4
Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, allspice, cardamom, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the rice and vermicelli with the spices.
- 5
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- 6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
- 7
Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and toasted slivered almonds, if desired. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the vermicelli is toasted to a nice golden brown for the best flavor and color.
- ✓Rinsing the rice well removes excess starch, leading to fluffier grains.
- ✓Avoid lifting the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure even cooking.
🔄 Variations
- For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs with skin and bone, then remove before serving.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Some recipes include a small amount of cooked chickpeas.