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Chicken Mutabaq

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Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Rest Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 60 minutes

Servings: 4 (8 Mutabaq)

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 pound (450 g) boneless chicken breast, finely diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup warm water

For Cooking

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the vegetable oil and gradually pour in the warm water while mixing. Knead for 8–10 minutes until you have a smooth and elastic dough. Cover with a clean towel and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Filling

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the diced chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned.

Season with cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.

Mix in the green onions and parsley, then remove the pan from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before stirring in the beaten eggs. The residual heat will gently cook the eggs without scrambling them completely.

Step 3: Divide the Dough

Cut the rested dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and lightly coat with oil.

On an oiled work surface, stretch or roll each dough ball into a very thin square, almost transparent but without tearing.

Step 4: Fill and Fold

Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough square.

Fold the sides inward to create a neat square parcel, completely enclosing the filling.

Press gently to seal the edges.

Step 5: Cook the Mutabaq

Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Place the folded Mutabaq seam-side down and cook for approximately 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Flip carefully and continue cooking until both sides are evenly browned.

Repeat with the remaining parcels.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the cooked Chicken Mutabaq to a serving plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips for the Best Chicken Mutabaq

  • Stretch the dough as thin as possible for authentic flaky layers.
  • Allow the filling to cool slightly before wrapping to prevent tearing.
  • Do not overfill the dough, or it may burst during cooking.
  • Cook over medium heat so the dough becomes crisp without burning.
  • Fresh herbs provide the best flavor compared to dried herbs.
  • Resting the dough makes it easier to stretch.

Variations

Cheese Chicken Mutabaq

Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a creamy filling.

Spicy Mutabaq

Increase the amount of green chili or add cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Vegetable Chicken Mutabaq

Mix diced carrots, cabbage, spinach, or bell peppers into the chicken filling.

Mushroom Chicken Mutabaq

Add finely chopped mushrooms for a richer and more earthy flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Mutabaq in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy again.

You can also freeze uncooked Mutabaq for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Mutabaq pairs wonderfully with:

  • Garlic yogurt sauce
  • Tahini sauce
  • Spicy tomato salsa
  • Fresh cucumber salad
  • Pickled vegetables
  • Mint yogurt dip
  • Hummus
  • French fries
  • Arabic tea

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and flaky outside
  • Juicy, flavorful chicken filling
  • Perfect for meal prep
  • Family-friendly recipe
  • Easy to customize
  • Great as a snack or complete meal
  • Authentic Middle Eastern flavors
  • Simple pantry ingredients

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 395 kcal
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Potassium: 420 mg
  • Calcium: 45 mg
  • Iron: 2.6 mg

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