Syrian Chicken and Rice Pilaf with Vermicelli (Dajaj bil Riz bi Shairieh)
A comforting and flavorful Syrian rice pilaf cooked with tender chicken pieces and toasted vermicelli, often garnished with nuts and herbs.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups Basmati rice(rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup Vermicelli noodles(broken into small pieces)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3.5 cups Chicken broth
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Cardamom(ground)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Toasted slivered almonds(for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4
Stir in the vermicelli noodles and cook, stirring constantly, until they turn a golden brown color. This is crucial for flavor and color.
- 5
Add the rinsed basmati rice, allspice, cinnamon, and cardamom. Stir to combine everything with the chicken and vermicelli.
- 6
Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 7
Let the pilaf rest, covered, for 10 minutes off the heat before fluffing with a fork.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with toasted slivered almonds and fresh chopped parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the vermicelli is toasted to a deep golden brown for the best flavor and color.
- ✓Rinsing the rice is important to remove excess starch, preventing the pilaf from becoming sticky.
- ✓Adjust the spices to your preference. Some variations include a pinch of nutmeg.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use chicken stock instead of broth.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate cooked chickpeas for added texture and protein.
- Use lamb or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.