30 Best Middle Eastern Chicken Recipes to Savor

Middle Eastern chicken dishes are known for their fragrant spices and tender, juicy meat.

These recipes bring together the best of Middle Eastern cooking, from grilled chicken to stews and roasts.

The use of fresh herbs and bold spices creates layers of flavor in every bite.

Each dish has the combination of ingredients that transport you to the heart of the Middle East.

Shish Tawook

Shish tawook captures the essence of Levantine and Mediterranean cuisine, making it a favorite among kabob lovers.

Juicy chicken pieces soak in a marinade that bursts with flavor, ensuring each bite is memorable.

Grilling brings out a delightful golden crust while keeping the meat tender inside.

Served alongside fluffy pita or fragrant pilaf, this dish adapts to any meal setting.

Chicken Shawarma

Chicken shawarma is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of spices such as paprika, cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

The chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.

Traditionally served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and sauces like tzatziki, it offers a satisfying and aromatic meal.

This versatile recipe can also be adapted for stovetop or oven cooking.

Chicken Machboos

Chicken machboos offers a rich tapestry of flavors that transport you straight to the heart of the Middle East.

The aromatic spices infuse each grain of rice, creating a delightful harmony with tender chicken and crunchy nuts on top.

Variations abound, allowing for creative twists using different meats or seafood, catering to diverse tastes.

Each version brings its own character while retaining that comforting essence unique to this dish.

Cooking it feels like an adventure in your kitchen as you experiment with spices and ingredients from various cultures.

Halal Cart-Style Chicken

A bowl filled with halal cart-style chicken offers a delightful blend of flavors that can transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East.

Grilled chicken, marinated to perfection, sits atop fluffy yellow rice, creating a satisfying base for this meal.

Tangy yogurt sauce adds a refreshing twist that complements the savory elements.

Fresh chopped veggies provide crunch and brightness, making each bite an exciting experience.

Turkish Chicken Stew

Turkish chicken stew offers a delightful mix of spices and tender meat that warms the soul.

A variety of vegetables adds texture and depth, enhancing every bite with fresh flavors.

This dish is straightforward to prepare, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

The aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

paired with crusty bread or rice, it creates a satisfying meal that lingers in memory long after the last spoonful is gone.

Fesenjan (Persian Pomegranate And Walnut Chicken Stew)

Fesenjan captivates with its rich history and bold flavors.

This Persian stew combines succulent chicken with a sauce crafted from pomegranate molasses and finely ground walnuts.

The sweet-tart essence of the pomegranate melds with the nutty undertones, creating a taste experience that lingers on the palate.

A hint of cinnamon or saffron can elevate this dish further, adding warmth and depth to each serving.

Chicken Adana

Chicken Adana offers a delightful experience with its hand-minced meat, infused with aromatic spices that elevate each bite.

Cooking it over an open flame adds a smoky richness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

The simplicity of skewering the seasoned meat makes preparation effortless and enjoyable.

Persian Saffron Chicken (Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh)

Persian saffron chicken with barberry rice offers a delightful culinary experience.

The vibrant saffron infuses the dish with a rich aroma, while the tartness of barberries adds an unexpected twist.

Tender meat practically melts in your mouth, thanks to slow cooking that enhances its flavor profile.

A sauce packed with spices elevates each bite, ensuring every forkful is memorable.

Accompanying this dish is a refreshing Shirazi salad that balances the richness.

Joojeh Kabab (Persian Chicken Kabobs)

Joojeh kabab offers a delightful taste of Persian cuisine with its rich saffron essence.

Marinated in yogurt and saffron overnight, this chicken dish guarantees an explosion of flavor with every bite.

Grilling enhances the juiciness, resulting in tender pieces.

Pairing it with saffron rice or grilled tomatoes elevates the meal.

For a fun twist, wrapping it in lavash bread adds an exciting texture and flavor combination.

Havij Polo (Persian Jewelled Carrot Rice with Saffron Chicken)

Havij polo captivates with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.

This Persian Jewelled Carrot Rice features saffron chicken, creating a dish that’s both visually stunning and delicious.

Topped with fried nuts and sultanas, it adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Preparing this meal requires only a few straightforward steps, making it accessible for any home cook.

Families will gather around the table, eager to savor every mouthful of this aromatic delight.

Al Faham Chicken

Al Faham chicken, or charcoal chicken, offers a delightful experience for your taste buds.

The blend of smoky flavors and aromatic Middle Eastern spices creates an unforgettable dish that rivals any grilled favorite.

This recipe shines during casual gatherings or laid-back barbecues with friends.

Juicy and tender, the chicken is infused with spices that dance on the palate.

Chicken Afghani Curry

Chicken Afghani curry offers a rich blend of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

Its creamy texture pairs with the tender chicken, creating a dish that's both satisfying and indulgent.

A hint of smokiness adds depth, elevating this recipe beyond ordinary curries.

Roomali roti or flaky parathas serve as perfect companions, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Chicken Salona

Chicken salona offers a delightful glimpse into Emirati culinary traditions.

This hearty tomato stew features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices that create a rich flavor profile.

Often enjoyed during special occasions like Ramadan and Eid, it carries the warmth of family gatherings and celebrations.

Pairing it with rice or pita bread enhances the experience, inviting everyone to savor each bite together.

Generations have cherished this dish for its comforting essence and communal spirit.

Tashreeb

Tashreeb showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East with its hearty combination of tender chicken and a medley of vegetables.

The stew, simmered in a robust tomato base, fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that hints at what’s to come.

Bread serves as more than just an accompaniment; it absorbs the savory broth, creating a delightful contrast in texture.

Often enjoyed during Iftar, this dish connects families and friends through shared meals and cherished moments during Ramadan.

Each spoonful offers warmth that nourishes both body and soul.

Trying tashreeb opens up a new world of flavors waiting to be savored at your table!

Jordanian Mansaf Chicken

A classic Jordanian dish captures a delightful mix of flavors that dance on the palate.

Tender meat, cooked to perfection, practically melts away with each forkful.

Fluffy rice complements the dish, while crunchy nuts and crispy onions add an exciting texture.

A silky sauce ties everything together, enhancing every bite with its rich taste.

Yellow turmeric rice paired with warm pita bread elevates this meal.

One taste transports you directly to the heart of the Middle East!

Chicken Mandi (Yemeni Chicken & Rice)

Yemeni chicken mandi offers a delightful blend of flavors that captivates the senses.

Juicy chicken, marinated with aromatic spices, sits atop fluffy yellow rice that absorbs all the savory goodness.

Crispy fried onions add a satisfying crunch, while almonds and raisins introduce a sweet contrast to each bite.

This dish is not just about taste; it also creates an inviting atmosphere at any gathering.

The vibrant colors on your plate make for an appealing presentation that draws everyone in.

Sumac Chicken Fatteh

Sumac chicken fatteh offers a delightful blend of flavors that can elevate any meal.

This dish surprises with its elegance, perfect for impressing guests while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Utilizing pantry staples makes it accessible, ensuring you can whip it up anytime inspiration strikes.

A luscious yogurt sauce adds a refreshing kick with hints of garlic and lemon that enhances every bite.

Lebanese Chicken and Rice

Lebanese chicken and rice, or riz a djej, offers a satisfying experience that never disappoints.

This dish features aromatic rice infused with spices and ground meat, creating a flavorful base.

Topped with tender shredded chicken and crunchy toasted nuts, it achieves an irresistible combination of textures.

Each ingredient plays its part in delivering both taste and heartiness.

Musakhan

Musakhan, the national dish of Palestine, captures attention with its vibrant flavors and comforting essence.

Juicy chicken slowly cooked to perfection melds with the tangy notes of sumac and sweet onions.

Crunchy pine nuts add a delightful texture that contrasts against the soft flatbread beneath it all.

This dish serves as a wonderful way to experience authentic Palestinian cuisine right at home.

Each element works together in harmony, creating an unforgettable meal that warms both heart and soul.

Chicken Maqluba

Chicken maqluba offers a delightful twist on traditional meals, showcasing layers of tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and aromatic rice.

This dish captivates with its vibrant presentation as it’s flipped upside down before serving.

Pairing it with yogurt adds a creamy touch that complements the flavors.

A fresh salad can brighten up the plate while providing a crunchy contrast to the warm ingredients.

Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Guests will surely be impressed by both its taste and stunning appearance at your table!

Middle Eastern Chicken and Potatoes

Chicken and potatoes come together in a way that surprises the taste buds.

A Middle Eastern-inspired marinade elevates this classic combination, infusing it with rich flavors and aromatic spices.

The simplicity of preparation makes it accessible, allowing anyone to whip up a delightful meal without fuss.

Chicken Kafta

Chicken kofta, known as chicken kafta in Lebanon, offers a delightful taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ground chicken combines with fresh parsley and grated onions to create a flavorful mixture.

Seasoning with salt and pepper allows the natural flavors to shine through while adding your favorite spices can elevate the dish.

The result is a moist kebab that captures attention at any gathering or meal.

Perfect for grilling, these koftas are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Lebanese Baked Chicken with Potatoes

Lebanese baked chicken with potatoes offers a delightful combination of spices and tender meat that excites the palate.

A simple sheet pan method allows for effortless preparation, ensuring minimal cleanup after a satisfying meal.

The aromatic blend of herbs infuses the chicken, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks.

Syrian Chicken

Savor the enticing flavors of a Syrian dish that brings excitement to your dinner table.

With everyday ingredients, this meal can be ready in just 15 minutes, allowing for quick and delicious family meals.

Pair it with giant couscous or opt for pasta, rice, polenta, or mashed potatoes; each option complements the rich taste.

A delightful aroma fills your kitchen as it cooks; you’ll find everyone eagerly awaiting their plates.

Afghani Chicken Pulao

Afghani chicken pulao delivers a delightful blend of spices and tender chicken that makes every meal special.

This dish features fragrant basmati rice, cooked to perfection alongside savory meat, creating an unforgettable experience.

A unique mix of cardamom, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices elevates the flavors in a way that feels both comforting and exciting.

Persian Chicken

Persian chicken offers a delightful experience for anyone craving a flavorful meal.

Tender, juicy pieces of chicken pair with fluffy basmati rice, creating an inviting plate.

The Baharat spice blend infuses each bite with aromatic warmth and depth, elevating the dish.

Preparing this one-pan wonder simplifies dinner time without sacrificing taste or presentation.

Authentic Saudi Chicken Kabsa

Saudi chicken kabsa offers a delightful journey through rich flavors and aromatic spices.

The rice, cooked to fluffy perfection, absorbs the essence of the chicken broth and seasonings, creating a harmonious blend.

Hosting friends or family becomes an exciting experience with this dish at the center of your table.

Each bite reveals a depth that invites conversation and appreciation for culinary traditions.

Grilled Chicken Kabob Middle Eastern Style

Middle Eastern chicken kabobs capture the essence of rich flavors and tender textures.

Yogurt marination infuses the chicken with a delightful tang, ensuring each piece is juicy and succulent.

This dish has earned its place as a favorite in countless homes across the region.

A quick recipe makes it accessible for anyone eager to try their hand at grilling.

Pair these kabobs with your choice of sides, such as fluffy rice or fresh salads!

Middle Eastern Baharat Baked Chicken Thighs

A Middle Eastern twist on baked boneless chicken thighs introduces an exciting flavor profile.

The spice blend baharat, featuring cardamom, cinnamon, and coriander, elevates this dish with its aromatic warmth.

No need for lengthy marination; just a quick 15 to 20 minutes is all it takes before cooking to juicy perfection.

Pairing the chicken with a fresh salad like fattoush or a simple tomato salad enhances the meal's vibrancy.

Grilled Zaatar Chicken

Grilled zaatar chicken offers an explosion of flavor.

Juicy and tender, this dish captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine with every bite.

A simple preparation process ensures that anyone can master it, making it a go-to choice for summer gatherings.

You can serve it on its own or wrap it in pita with fresh veggies and sauces.