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Lebanese Chicken and Rice Casserole with Pine Nuts and Allspice

Lebanese Chicken and Rice Casserole with Pine Nuts and Allspice
65min Total Time
6 people Servings
Medium Difficulty
Moderate Cost
550 kcal Calories

Experience the delightful fusion of flavours in this Lebanese Chicken and Rice Casserole with Pine Nuts and Allspice—a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table.


Ingredients

6
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2

In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.

3

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4

Add chicken thighs to the pan, cooking until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

5

In a large casserole dish, layer the uncooked rice, followed by the sautéed chicken and onion mixture.

6

Pour chicken broth over the top, making sure the rice is fully submerged.

7

Cover the dish with aluminium foil and bake for 30 minutes.

8

Remove the foil, sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

9

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Kitchen Tools

  • Large frying pan
  • Casserole dish
  • Measuring cups
  • Wooden spoon
  • Aluminium foil

Chef's Tips

Soak the rice for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the texture.
Ensure chicken is well-browned for the best flavour.
Add extra spices according to your taste preference.

Troubleshooting

If the rice is undercooked, add more broth and return to the oven.
For crispy topping, place under the grill for a few minutes at the end.

Recipe Variations

Add vegetables like peas and carrots for extra nutrition.
Swap pine nuts for almonds for a different crunch.

Healthy Alternatives

Use brown rice for added fibre.
Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Pair with a tangy yogurt sauce or hummus.

Nutrition Facts

550
Calories
34g
Protein
60g
Carbs
20g
Fat
3g
Fiber
1g
Sugar
600mg
Sodium
90mg
Cholesterol

Dietary Info

High-protein
Gluten-free

Garnish Ideas

Chopped fresh mint or coriander.
Sliced lemons or pomegranate seeds.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture.

Leftover Ideas

Make a chicken and rice salad with leftover ingredients.
Turn it into a wrap with pita bread and fresh veggies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not washing the rice properly can lead to a sticky dish.
Overcooking the chicken will make it dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated easily.

What can I serve them with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

How do I make it vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well. Just ensure it's cooled before freezing.

Reviews

Emily
Mar 10, 2026
Absolutely loved this recipe! The flavours are incredible!
Daniel
Mar 23, 2026
Really tasty, but I think I'll add more nuts next time.
Sophia
Mar 15, 2026
A new family favourite! So easy to make.
Michael
Mar 5, 2026
Great dish, but the rice could be a bit softer.
Jessica
Mar 2, 2026
Good flavours but I missed a bit of spice.
Oliver
Mar 24, 2026
A hearty meal! I added some extra vegetables.
Mia
Feb 26, 2026
So comforting and delicious! Will make again.
James
Mar 19, 2026
Really nice, but I'd love to try it with different spices.
Liam
Mar 12, 2026
Perfect for meal prep! Tasted even better the next day.
Ella
Mar 9, 2026
Good, but required a bit more seasoning for my taste.
Ava
Mar 6, 2026
Delicious! The kids loved it.
Isabella
Mar 9, 2026
A wonderful dish; I added some saffron for extra flavour!
Charlotte
Mar 24, 2026
Best casserole I've made! So much flavour!
Liam
Mar 21, 2026
I liked it! Great comfort food.
Sophia
Mar 2, 2026
Tasty, but I prefer more spices.
Noah
Mar 21, 2026
A hit at dinner! Everyone enjoyed it.
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