Lebanese Chicken
Lebanese Chicken features tender chicken cooked with aromatic cinnamon, onions, potatoes, and tomato sauce, offering warm, savory flavors perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Salt and cinnamon the chicken pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter or margarine.
- Add the chicken and brown thoroughly on both sides.
- Add the potatoes and onions to the skillet.
- Mix the tomato paste with water or add the tomato sauce.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken, potatoes, and onions.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
- Serve over Lebanese rice and sprinkle with pine nuts if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken with salt and cinnamon for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have tomato paste, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce can be used as a substitute. Adding a pinch of allspice or nutmeg can enhance the dish's warmth. Consider using sweet potatoes for a twist on traditional ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lebanese Chicken over a bed of fluffy Lebanese rice, garnished with toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete meal, consider serving with Mediterranean recipes like Stuffed Pear Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lebanese Chicken contains roughly 1004 calories, with 11g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1993mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain juicy. Boneless chicken cooks faster, so check for doneness after 30-40 minutes of simmering.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. Both will provide a nice flavor and help in browning the chicken.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice up the dish, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato mixture. Alternatively, serve with a side of harissa or a spicy yogurt sauce for an added kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).