Chicken Shuwa: A Slow-Cooked Omani Roast Chicken

whole chicken

🥗Healthier: skinless chicken

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Skinless chicken reduces fat while thighs are more affordable.

date syrup

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener, while brown sugar is cost-effective.

Prepare the marinade by mixing spices, garlic, ginger, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Rub the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.

Cover the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).

Wrap the marinated chicken in banana leaves, sealing it tightly to retain moisture.

Place the wrapped chicken in a deep baking dish or a pot.

Add water to the pot, ensuring it does not touch the chicken.

Cover the pot tightly with foil or a lid to trap steam.

Cook in the preheated oven for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before unwrapping.

Serve the chicken with rice or flatbread, drizzling with any remaining marinade.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary