Stuffed Chicken(Djaj Mahshi)
Juicy whole chicken stuffed with a savory rice and ground beef mixture, seasoned with cinnamon and toasted pine nuts; perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and drain the rice.
- Place rice and water in a saucepan.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is partially cooked.
- Remove from heat.
- Add ground beef, salt, pepper, cinnamon, butter, and roasted pine nuts to the rice.
- Mix well to combine.
- Stuff the mixture into the whole chicken.
- Secure the opening and place the chicken in a roasting pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your stuffing, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic. If you don't have pine nuts, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before roasting to achieve even cooking. For an extra crispy skin, rub some olive oil on the outside before roasting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed chicken with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A side of Chilled Tomato Soup With Basil Sorbet can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken. Pair with rice pilaf or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also slice the chicken and reheat in a skillet with a bit of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Chicken(Djaj Mahshi) contains roughly 493 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1957mg per serving (85% 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 other types of meat for the stuffing?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or lamb. Each will impart a different flavor to the dish. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before stuffing it into the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the meat. Alternatively, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it's cooked safely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until you're ready to roast. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier dish.
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).