When it comes to delicious and flavorful dishes, Israel is a culinary powerhouse. With its rich cultural heritage and geographical location at the crossroads of Mediterranean cuisine, Israel has developed a unique gastronomic identity that is both bold and aromatic. One staple ingredient in many Israeli dishes is chicken, which can be found in everything from classic schnitzel to hearty stews and soups.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Israeli chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From the crispy, golden-brown exterior of Israeli Chicken Schnitzel with Tahini Sauce to the rich flavors of Jerusalem Spiced Chicken with Couscous, these recipes showcase the diversity and creativity of Israeli cuisine.
Israeli Chicken Schnitzel with Tahini Sauce
This classic Middle Eastern dish combines crispy fried chicken cutlets with a rich and creamy tahini sauce, making it a perfect blend of flavors and textures. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tahini sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Serve the schnitzel hot with tahini sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Jerusalem Spiced Chicken with Couscous
This aromatic dish combines the warm spices of Jerusalem with the comforting simplicity of couscous, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. With its blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, this chicken dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the Middle East.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. Fluff with a fork.
6. Serve the chicken over the couscous, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Yogurt
Satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and refreshing Middle Eastern-inspired dish with this simple recipe. Marinate chicken breasts in a blend of aromatic spices, then grill them to perfection and serve with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickled turnips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast pita breads on grill or in oven.
5. Assemble shawarma by slicing grilled chicken and serving with toasted pita, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickled turnips (if using).
6. Serve immediately with additional garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Israeli Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken
Discover the vibrant flavors of Israel with this mouthwatering roast chicken recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Musakhan with Sumac and Onions
This classic Middle Eastern dish is a flavorful combination of chicken, onions, and sumac, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The tangy sumac adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add the sumac, salt, and pepper to the onions and stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the onion-sumac mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Israeli Chicken and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, combining the flavors of chicken, chickpeas, and aromatic spices. With its rich and comforting texture, it’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Za’atar Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these aromatic and savory Za’atar Grilled Chicken Skewers. This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of za’atar, lemon, and garlic for a dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons za’atar (aromatic herb mix)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as tabbouleh salad or grilled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Israeli Chicken Shakshuka with Tomatoes
A flavorful and spicy North African-inspired dish, Israeli Chicken Shakshuka with Tomatoes is a perfect combination of juicy chicken, rich tomatoes, and crispy eggs. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Create 2-3 wells in the tomato mixture and crack eggs into each well.
8. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Chicken with Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory pomegranate glaze, infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Brush both sides of the chicken with the pomegranate glaze.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Israeli Chicken and Rice Pilaf with Almonds
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the warmth of Israeli spices with the crunch of toasted almonds, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
4. Pour in water or broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Stir in parsley and almonds. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Sabich with Eggplant and Amba
Experience the flavors of Israel with this creative twist on the popular Sabich sandwich, featuring tender chicken, crispy eggplant, and tangy amba.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Amba (pickled mango chutney)
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill or bake the eggplant slices until tender and lightly browned.
5. Cook the chicken according to your preference (grilled, baked, or pan-fried).
6. Assemble the Sabich by spreading amba on each pita bread, layering with cooked chicken, grilled eggplant, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Israeli Spiced Chicken Thighs with Olives
A flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the brininess of olives, all wrapped up in a blend of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the spice mixture.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and top each thigh with sliced olives.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Israeli Salad
A flavorful and refreshing combination of grilled chicken and colorful Israeli salad, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. This recipe brings together the smoky flavor of grilled chicken and the tangy crunch of Israeli salad.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Israeli Salad:
– 2 cups diced cucumbers
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the grilled chicken atop the Israeli salad.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Hummus Stuffed Pita
This recipe combines the creaminess of hummus with the juiciness of chicken, all wrapped up in a crispy pita bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, this flavorful combination is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 pita breads
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together chicken breast, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread hummus on each pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place chicken mixture on top of hummus, dividing evenly among the four pitas.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Israeli Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
This classic Middle Eastern dish combines tender chicken meatballs with a rich and tangy tomato sauce, perfect for serving over couscous or rice. A flavorful and aromatic combination that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, combine crushed tomatoes and chicken broth in a large saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and stir gently. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Harissa Roasted Chicken with Carrots
This recipe combines the bold flavors of North African cuisine with the simplicity of roasted chicken, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The spicy harissa sauce adds depth and warmth to the carrots and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp harissa sauce
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into sticks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chopped carrots around the chicken in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots and sprinkle with harissa sauce.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the carrots are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Israeli Chicken and Eggplant Tagine
This hearty North African-inspired dish combines tender chicken, smoky eggplant, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection in a richly flavored tagine. A perfect blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add eggplant and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in tomatoes and broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich with Pickles
A crispy chicken schnitzel patty, juicy pickle slices, and creamy mayonnaise come together to create a mouthwatering sandwich that’s sure to please. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns
– Thinly sliced dill pickles
– Mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. Pound chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Dredge in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Fry in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing a schnitzel patty on each bun, topping with pickle slices and mayonnaise.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Israeli Chicken and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup combines tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Tahini and Parsley
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this creamy and refreshing twist, featuring the rich flavors of tahini and parsley. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, garlic, and parsley.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the chicken with the tahini mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Lemon wedges are a nice touch for added brightness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Israeli cuisine with these 20 delicious chicken recipes. From classic Schnitzel to Shawarma and Stews, each dish showcases the country’s unique blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices. Savor the tangy zip of Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken or the rich flavor of Pomegranate Glazed Chicken with Herbs. Explore the comforting warmth of Chicken and Rice Pilaf with Almonds or the vibrant colors of Za’atar Grilled Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.