Chicken Levengi | Traditional Azerbaijani Dish

walnuts

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are more affordable and provide a similar crunch.

dried apricots

🥗Healthier: fresh apricots

💰Cheaper: raisins

Raisins are often less expensive and add sweetness.

whole chicken

🥗Healthier: skinless chicken

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are cheaper and remain juicy when cooked.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Margarine is a cost-effective alternative to butter.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Clean and pat dry the whole chicken.

Chop onions and sauté in olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add rice to the sautéed onions and stir for 2 minutes.

Mix in chopped walnuts, dried apricots, and spices, stirring until combined.

Stuff the chicken cavity with the rice mixture.

Rub the outside of the chicken with butter and season with salt and black pepper.

Place the stuffed chicken in a roasting pan and cover with foil.

Roast in the oven for 1 hour, then remove foil and roast for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.

Baste the chicken with pan juices every 15 minutes during the last 30 minutes.

Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Garnish with pomegranate seeds and serve.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

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