How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Yes, marinate the chicken and prep the pilaf ingredients a day in advance.

What can I substitute for Baharat if I don't have it?

Use a blend of ground cinnamon, cumin, and chili powder for a similar flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster and tend to be less juicy.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and replace with roasted cauliflower or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

Iraqi Spicy Baharat-Glazed Chicken with Lentil Pilaf

Name: Iraqi Spicy Baharat-Glazed Chicken with Lentil Pilaf
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 tsp ground black pepper; 2 tsp ground paprika; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground clove; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp Baharat spice mix; Salt, to taste; 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed; 1/2 cup lentils, rinsed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp turmeric; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

A fragrant and spicy blend bringing the best of Iraqi cuisine

Delight in this aromatic dish featuring tender chicken glazed with a spicy Baharat mixture, served alongside a savory lentil pilaf. Perfect for an exotic dinner experience.

1 h 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

Baharat Spice Mix

2 tsp ground black pepper

2 tsp ground paprika

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground clove

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Chicken

8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

3 tbsp olive oil

4 tbsp Baharat spice mix

Salt, to taste

For the Lentil Pilaf

1 cup basmati rice, rinsed

1/2 cup lentils, rinsed

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups chicken broth

1 tsp turmeric

For Garnishing

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Mix the Marinade

Mix olive oil and Baharat spice mix in a bowl.

Coat the Chicken

Coat the chicken thighs with the mixture.

Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Lentil Pilaf

Heat Oil

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

Sauté Aromatics

Sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.

Toast Rice and Lentils

Stir in rice and lentils, coating them in the oil and onion mixture.

Ensure lentils are softened before adding rice to avoid uneven cooking. Toasting the rice in oil adds a depth of flavor to the pilaf.

Cooking Process

Searing the Chicken

Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and bring to room temperature.

Cooking the Pilaf

Add chicken broth and turmeric to the saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer until rice and lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.

Baking the Chicken

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), place chicken in a baking dish, and bake for 35–40 minutes until cooked through and skin is crispy.

Plating & Serving