Maqluba (Upside Down Chicken with Rice)

Maqluba is a comforting layered rice dish popular across the Levant, known for its dramatic flip before serving. This version features chicken and golden fried eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes, all simmered together in a fragrant spiced broth and served with cool yogurt and a fresh salad.

Layered Rice Dish with Chicken and Vegetables

Author: Mari Kibe Cooking Method:Simmering Frying Cuisine:Levantine Courses:Main Dish

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 30 minutesCook time:1 hour Rest time: 10 minutesTotal time:1 hour 40 minutesServings:6 servingsCalories:600 kcal Best Season:Summer

Description

Maqluba is a comforting layered rice dish popular in the Levant, known for its dramatic flip before serving. This version features chicken, golden fried eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes simmered in a fragrant spiced broth, served with yogurt and salad.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on)
• 1 large eggplant (sliced and fried)
• 1 cup cauliflower florets (fried)
• 2 medium potatoes (sliced and fried)
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons spices (e.g., cumin, cinnamon, allspice)
• 1 cup yogurt (for serving)
• 1 cup fresh salad (for serving)

Instructions

1. Soak the rice for 30 minutes. Fry the eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes until golden and crispy.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions until translucent. Add chicken and brown on both sides.
3. Layer the fried vegetables on top of the chicken, followed by the soaked rice. Pour chicken broth over the top.
4. Cover and simmer on medium heat for 30-40 minutes, until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes. Carefully flip onto a serving dish and serve with yogurt and salad.

Notes

This dish can be customized with different vegetables and proteins based on preference.

Keywords:Maqluba, rice, chicken, Levantine, comfort food