Syrian Style Honey-Spiced Chicken with Currants Recipe

Introduction

Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Syrian cuisine with this traditional Syrian Style Chicken recipe. Tender pieces of chicken are simmered in a warm blend of spices, honey, and currants, creating a delicious balance of sweet and savory. It’s a comforting dish perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup currants (or raisins)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot until golden on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Step 3: Add the ground cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, allspice, coriander, cloves, and black pepper to the onions and garlic. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes to release the spices’ aromas.
4. Step 4: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the honey, currants, and water or chicken broth. Stir to coat the chicken well with the sauce.
5. Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Step 6: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with rice, couscous, or quinoa, and optionally a side of Greek or coconut yogurt.

Tips & Variations

• For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken with the spices and a little olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
• Substitute raisins if currants are not available; dried cranberries can add a unique twist.
• Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer sauce.
• Adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a garnish brings a delightful crunch.

Storage

Store leftover Syrian Style Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave until warmed through. This dish does not freeze well due to the honey-based sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, boneless or bone-in chicken thighs work well and stay tender during cooking. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if the pieces are smaller.

Is this dish spicy?

No, the spices used are warm and aromatic rather than hot, making this dish mild and flavorful. You can add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a little heat.

Syrian Style Honey-Spiced Chicken with Currants Recipe

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4.6 from 75 reviews

Syrian Style Chicken is a fragrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich sauce of aromatic spices, honey, and currants. This traditional Middle Eastern recipe balances sweet and savory flavors, creating a comforting and elegant meal perfect for serving with rice or couscous.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Syrian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)

Sauce and Seasoning

• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup currants (or raisins)
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then brown them in the pot until golden on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the ground cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, allspice, coriander, cloves, and black pepper. Stir the spices into the onions and garlic and cook for another 2 minutes to release their flavors.
3. Cook the Chicken: Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot. Add the honey, currants (or raisins), and water or chicken broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is well-coated in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or quinoa and can be complemented with a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt.

Notes

• You can substitute currants with raisins if desired.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
• Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Adjust the amount of honey to make the dish sweeter or less sweet.
• Garnishing with parsley adds freshness and color to the dish.

Keywords: Syrian chicken recipe, Middle Eastern chicken, honey chicken, spiced chicken stew, chicken with currants, traditional Syrian dish