Zesty Chicken and Rice with Preserved Lemon

Recipe Title: Zesty Chicken and Rice with Preserved Lemon

Tags: chicken, rice, preserved lemon, expert, savory, dinner, Mediterranean

Estimated Calories: 650 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 preserved lemon, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and sear on each side until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and preserved lemon, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the basmati rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the oil and aromatics.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

4. Simmer the Dish:

   • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
   • After 15 minutes, place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice.
   • Cover again and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Finish and Serve:

   • Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, covered.
   • Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes:

• For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra half of a preserved lemon.
• This dish pairs well with a simple green salad.
• Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.