Worldwide Food Tour – Saudia Arabia
Dish of Tradition and Celebration
Chicken Mashkool (مشكول الدجاج) is a beloved Saudi Arabian rice dish, featuring spiced, tender chicken served over fragrant, golden rice. It is similar to Kabsa or Mandi, with its distinctive blend of warm spices, slow-cooked meat, and aromatic rice, making it a staple dish for family gatherings and festive occasions.
While Mashkool is sometimes used interchangeably with Kabsa or Mandi, its defining characteristic is the way the chicken and rice absorb the spices separately yet harmonize beautifully when served together.
The History: A Staple of Arabian Peninsula Cuisine
Saudi Arabian cuisine is deeply influenced by Bedouin traditions, where dishes were designed to be nourishing, flavorful, and easy to cook in large quantities. Mashkool, like Kabsa and Mandi, evolved from these traditions, incorporating locally available spices, grains, and meats.
It is commonly enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and celebrations, served family-style on large platters, emphasizing the hospitality and generosity that is central to Saudi Arabian culture.
What is Chicken Mashkool?
Chicken Mashkool is a one-pot rice and chicken dish, where the chicken is cooked separately with spices, then served over flavored, golden rice. The dish gets its distinctive warm, aromatic essence from Middle Eastern spices like cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and black lime (loomi).
Essential Ingredients of Chicken Mashkool:
For the Chicken:
- Whole Chicken (or Chicken Pieces) – Bone-in for extra flavor.
- Onions & Garlic – For depth and fragrance.
- Tomatoes (Optional) – Some versions include tomatoes for richness.
- Bay Leaves, Cardamom, Cloves, Cinnamon Stick – Key Arabian spices.
- Black Lime (Loomi) – Adds a distinct citrusy depth.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasoning.
For the Rice:
- Basmati Rice – Long-grain rice, preferred for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors.
- Ghee or Butter – Adds richness to the rice.
- Turmeric & Cumin – Give the rice its signature golden color and earthy taste.
- Raisins & Almonds (Optional) – Often used for garnish.
Tasting Notes: Warm, Spiced, and Aromatic
- The chicken is juicy, tender, and infused with deep spices.
- The rice is golden, lightly spiced, and rich in flavor.
- The black lime (loomi) provides a subtle citrusy tang, balancing the warm spices.
- The dish is perfectly balanced—fragrant but not overpowering, hearty but not too heavy.
This dish is aromatic and flavorful yet comforting, making it a favorite across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region.
How Chicken Mashkool is Served
Traditional Serving Styles:
- Family-Style on a Large Platter – Served in one big dish for communal eating.
- With Yogurt or Salata Hara – A refreshing yogurt-based dip or spicy tomato salsa balances the dish.
- With Nuts & Raisins Garnish – Toasted almonds, pine nuts, or golden raisins add extra texture.
- With Flatbread (Khubz) – Sometimes enjoyed with flatbread to scoop up the rice.
Chicken Mashkool is often paired with dates or sweetened tea, a common practice in Saudi hospitality.
Why Chicken Mashkool is a Saudi Favorite
✔ Deep, Warm Flavors – A beautiful blend of spices and slow-cooked chicken.
✔ Easy to Prepare & Serve – A one-pot meal, perfect for large gatherings.
✔ Rooted in Tradition – A dish that reflects Saudi Arabian heritage and hospitality.
✔ Versatile – Can be made with lamb, beef, or even seafood.
✔ Balanced & Satisfying – Not too heavy, but rich enough for a fulfilling meal.
Whether enjoyed at a family dinner in Riyadh or a traditional feast in Jeddah, Chicken Mashkool is a true taste of Saudi Arabia.