Ingredients

2 Cornish hens or 1 whole chicken
2 teaspoons salt
2 large onions , thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup long-grain rice
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon rose water ( optional )
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried barberries , cleaned , soaked and drained or 1 cup fresh cranberries , chopped
4 tablespoons slivered almonds
3 tablespoons raisins
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 teaspoon saffron ( optional )
1/4 cup apple juice
lime slice ( to garnish )
Persian Chicken Stuffed With Rice is a traditional dish that is popular in Persian cuisine. The flavors are a mix of aromatic spices, tangy dried fruits, and crunchy nuts, bringing a unique depth that is hard to find in other dishes. This meal is usually served in large gatherings and special events and is often paired with a refreshing salad or yogurt dip.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and rinse the chicken under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels and season inside and out with 1 teaspoon of salt.
2.In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add the rice, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, rose water, and chicken broth.
3.Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for 7-10 minutes until the rice is half-cooked.
4.Add barberries, almonds, raisins, lime juice, and saffron. Mix well. Stuff the chicken with rice mixture.
5.Combine the remaining salt, apple juice, and lime juice. Pour the mixture over the chicken. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and cover with foil.
6.Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

PROS

Persian Chicken Stuffed With Rice is a dish that is perfect for dinner parties.
It has a unique taste that’s perfect for those who enjoy aromatic and savory flavors.
It’s also filling and versatile, so it can be paired with many side dishes.

CONS

The ingredient list is long, and the recipe requires some time to prepare.
Also, it might be challenging to find some unique ingredients like rose water and dried barberries.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish offers great nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while rice is a good source of carbohydrates. Barberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that boost the immune system. Almonds provide vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats that are good for the heart. However, it’s essential to note that the chicken is baked with skin, so it’s best to remove it before eating to lower the fat content.

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