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How to Make Authentic Iraqi Chicken Maqlouba | Delicious Recipe & Step-by-Step Guide!

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Chef Anoush
Chef Anoush
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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Iraqi Chicken Maqlouba

Cultural Context

Iraqi Chicken Maqlouba, meaning 'upside down' in Arabic, hails from the Levant region and is a cherished dish in Iraqi households. Traditionally prepared for special occasions, it reflects the resourcefulness of home cooks, using layers of rice, vegetables, and meat to create a hearty meal. Today, Maqlouba is enjoyed across the Middle East and has gained popularity worldwide, often adapted with local ingredients and flavors.

IraqiIQmain
60 min
medium
6 servings
Servings4
1.5 lb chicken, cut into pieces
2 cups rice, rinsed
1 medium eggplant, sliced
1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons mixed spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is leaner, while chicken thighs are more economical.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a high smoke point, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are nutritious and cheaper than dried chickpeas.

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur

Quinoa is high in protein, while bulgur is a cost-effective grain.

1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

2

Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3

Add garlic and spices, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.

4

Brown chicken pieces on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

5

Layer eggplant and cauliflower over the chicken, cooking for 5 minutes.

6

Add rice evenly over the vegetables.

7

Pour in broth and season with salt and pepper.

8

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

9

Cook for 30-35 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

10

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes.

11

Invert the pot onto a large serving platter to unmold.

12

Garnish with chickpeas and parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

sautéinglayeringcooking

Equipment Needed

large potserving platterknifecutting boardspatula

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

pescatarian

Also Known As

MaqlubaMakloubeh

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