Sumac Chicken with Freekeh
Tender chicken marinated in sumac, lemon, and spices, then roasted and served over a bed of smoky freekeh (cracked green wheat). This dish highlights the vibrant flavors of Palestinian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 large Chicken pieces(thighs or breasts, bone-in, skin-on)
- 3 tbsp Sumac
- 1/4 cup Lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1.5 cups Freekeh
- 3 cups Water or chicken broth
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Pomegranate seeds(for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine sumac, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.
- 2
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 3
Place marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and skin is crispy and golden brown. Baste with pan juices halfway through cooking.
- 4
While chicken is roasting, rinse the freekeh thoroughly. In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 5
Add the rinsed freekeh to the saucepan and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- 6
Pour in the water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until freekeh is tender and liquid is absorbed. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- 7
To serve, spoon the cooked freekeh onto a platter or individual plates. Top with the roasted sumac chicken pieces. Garnish with chopped parsley and pomegranate seeds, if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- ✓If you can't find freekeh, substitute with bulgur wheat or couscous, adjusting cooking times as needed.
- ✓Ensure the freekeh is well-rinsed to remove any dust or debris.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add toasted almonds or walnuts to the freekeh for added crunch.
- Serve with a side of plain yogurt or a simple tahini sauce.
- Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots into the freekeh for a touch of sweetness.