Ramadan Recipes: Chicken Mandi
Dive into the Flavors of Ramadan with This Traditional Chicken Mandi Recipe

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, households around the world prepare to indulge in an array of mouthwatering dishes to break their fast. Among the most beloved and traditional recipes is chicken mandi, a fragrant and flavorful dish originating from Yemen and widely popular across the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East. With tenderly cooked chicken, aromatic rice, and a blend of spices, Mandi is a perfect centerpiece for festive feasting during Ramadan gatherings.
Read More: Ramadan Recipes: Al Kabsa
Read More: Ramadan Recipes: Laham Mandi
This recipe was crafted by our esteemed culinary advisor, Chef Sarah.
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This article was previously published on UAE Moments.To see the original article, click here
Ingredients
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- 30 Minutes
- 6 Serving
- 400 Calories
- 1 whole chicken, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons Mandi spice mix (available in stores or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
- Fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges for garnish
Chicken Mandi
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Method & Directions
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- 60 Minutes
- Prepare the Chicken
تم نسخ الرابطIn a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with half of the Mandi spice mix, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, minced garlic, and salt. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sear the Chicken
تم نسخ الرابطHeat ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Saute Aromatics
تم نسخ الرابطIn the same pot, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized. Stir in diced tomatoes and the remaining Mandi spice mix. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Add Rice and Broth
تم نسخ الرابطDrain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring to coat it with the onion and tomato mixture. Pour in chicken broth or water, ensuring it covers the rice by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer Until Cooked
تم نسخ الرابطLet the rice simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and fluffy. Arrange the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- Finish and Serve
تم نسخ الرابطCover the pot again and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once done, garnish the Mandi with fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges before serving hot.