Lebanese Riz a Djej
Riz a Djej is a beloved Lebanese rice and chicken dish where tender chicken pieces are simmered with fragrant rice, often enriched with toasted vermicelli noodles, aromatic spices like allspice and cinnamon, and sometimes caramelized onions. It is a staple comfort food in Lebanese households and a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced meal providing a good mix of carbohydrates from rice and vermicelli, protein from chicken, and healthy fats from cooking oils or ghee. A typical serving offers a substantial calorie count, usually ranging from 500 to 700 calories, depending on portion size and added fats.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Phosphorus | 350 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
| Selenium | 20 mcg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
Per 1 serving (approx. 300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Riz a Djej is culturally significant as a symbol of hospitality and home cooking in Lebanon, often served during festive occasions and family meals. Its unique combination of toasted vermicelli and spices gives it a distinct, nutty flavor profile that sets it apart from other rice-based dishes in the region.
