Musakhan (Palestinian Chicken with Sumac and Onions)
Savor the bold and aromatic flavors of Palestinian cuisine with Musakhan, a traditional dish featuring tender chicken roasted with caramelized onions, sumac, and olive oil, served atop warm flatbread. This hearty and fragrant meal is perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, offering a true taste of the Levant.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons sumac
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
- 4 pieces of flatbread (taboon or pita)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and half of the sumac. Set aside.
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Caramelize the Onions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 15–20 minutes. Stir in the allspice, cinnamon, and remaining sumac, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.
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Roast the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on a baking tray or in a roasting pan. Spread half of the onion mixture over and around the chicken. Roast in the oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
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Prepare the Flatbread
Warm the flatbreads in the oven for 5 minutes. Lay them out on a serving platter and top each with a portion of the remaining onion mixture.
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Assemble the Musakhan
Place the roasted chicken pieces on top of the flatbreads with onions. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley over the dish for garnish.
Serving
Musakhan is traditionally served family-style, with flatbread absorbing the flavorful onion and sumac juices. Pair it with a fresh salad or yogurt for a complete and satisfying meal.
Experience the warm, tangy, and aromatic layers of Musakhan, a dish that celebrates Palestinian culinary heritage and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
