Dajaj Mashwi, a flavorful grilled chicken dish from Saudi Arabia, is a staple of Arabian barbecue cuisine, often enjoyed across the region. This dish features tender chicken—typically boneless breasts or legs—marinated with a vibrant blend of spices like paprika, cumin, and zatar, then grilled to smoky perfection. Served with a side of garlic sauce or fresh salad, it’s a celebration of bold flavors and hospitality, perfect for gatherings or a special family meal. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe to bring the authentic taste of Saudi Dajaj Mashwi to your kitchen.IngredientsFor the Marinade
- 4 boneless chicken breasts (or 6 whole chicken legs)
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp zatar powder (or substitute with thyme and sesame seeds)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Serving
- 1 cup garlic yogurt sauce (optional, made with 1 cup plain yogurt, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp lemon juice)
- 1 cup mixed salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley, chopped)
- Grilled onions and tomatoes (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Grill (charcoal or gas) or grill pan
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl (for garlic sauce, if making)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken breasts or legs under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. If using breasts, place each piece in a zip-lock bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This tenderizes the meat and ensures even cooking. Avoid excessive force to prevent tearing the chicken.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the paprika, red chili powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, zatar powder, and olive oil. Stir until it forms a smooth, fragrant paste. The zatar adds an earthy, nutty flavor typical of Saudi cuisine, while the lime juice brings a tangy brightness. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and rub the marinade thoroughly over each piece, ensuring every surface is coated. For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight marination (up to 8 hours) is ideal.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
If using a charcoal grill, light the coals and wait until they’re covered with white ash, creating a medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). For a gas grill or grill pan, preheat to the same temperature. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A hot grill is key to achieving those signature charred marks and locking in juices.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the pieces on the grill over direct heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally with tongs, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior has beautiful grill marks. For whole legs, increase cooking time to 10-12 minutes per side, ensuring the meat near the bone is fully cooked. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.
Step 5: Rest and Prepare Sides
Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness. While resting, prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing yogurt, minced garlic, salt, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Chop your mixed salad ingredients and, if desired, grill a few onion slices and tomato halves for 2-3 minutes to complement the dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the grilled chicken on a large serving platter. Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Add a generous portion of mixed salad and, if using, the grilled onions and tomatoes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve hot with flatbread, rice, or couscous to soak up the flavors, inviting everyone to dig in family-style.Tips for Success
- Marination Time: Longer marination (up to 8 hours) deepens the flavor, but even 1 hour works if you’re short on time.
- Grill Alternatives: No grill? Use a stovetop grill pan or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, then broil for 2-3 minutes for char.
- Spice Adjustments: Reduce chili powder for a milder taste or add more for extra heat, tailoring it to your preference.
- Chicken Cuts: Breasts cook faster, while legs offer richer flavor—choose based on your occasion.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Chicken Breast with Sauce)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g (5g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Key Nutrients: High in protein from chicken, vitamin C from lime, and healthy fats from olive oil.
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1-8 hours marination)
- Cook Time: 15-25 minutes
- Total Time: 1.5-8.5 hours (depending on marination)
- Servings: 4-6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dajaj Mashwi is a celebration of Saudi Arabia’s love for bold, smoky flavors, made accessible right in your backyard or kitchen. The marinade’s spice blend transforms simple chicken into a dish that’s juicy, aromatic, and irresistible, while the grilling process adds that authentic charred touch. Perfect for barbecues or weeknight dinners, it pairs beautifully with sides that reflect the region’s fresh and vibrant cuisine. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating your family, this dish brings a taste of Saudi hospitality to your table.Bring Saudi Flavors HomeCrafting Dajaj Mashwi at home is a delightful way to explore Saudi Arabia’s culinary traditions, where grilling and spice come together in harmony. The process is straightforward yet rewarding, with each step building layers of flavor that make this dish a standout. Fire up your grill, gather your loved ones, and savor the smoky, tangy goodness of this Saudi classic—perfect for any occasion!
