Moroccan-Inspired Chicken Rice Bake

Tips

Tips:

• Use high-quality basmati rice – The better the rice, the fluffier the texture. Rinse it well and soak it to help it cook evenly in the oven.
• Chop the dates small – This helps them melt into the rice slightly as it bakes, giving you sweet little pockets throughout the dish rather than big chewy chunks.
• Let it rest before serving – Covering the dish for 5–10 minutes after cooking allows the steam to settle, making the rice lighter and easier to fluff.
• Try it with a spoon of yogurt – A dollop of natural yogurt on the side adds a cool contrast to the warmth of the spices and balances the sweetness from the dates.
• Make it vegetarian – Swap the chicken for a can of chickpeas and use vegetable stock. It still delivers loads of flavour and makes a great meat-free main.