Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3 full chicken legs, skin on and bone in
- 2 yellow onions
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 6 cardamom pods
- 6 whole allspice berries
For the Rolls
- 4 large Markouk bread (substitute with Lebanese pita or tortillas)
- 6 red onions
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons sumac, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup slivered almonds
Instructions
- Make the Chicken Broth: Place the chicken legs, yellow onions, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and allspice berries in a large pot. Cover with water, bring to a boil, and skim off any residue. Simmer for at least 45 minutes up to 2-3 hours to make a flavorful broth. Remove the chicken from the broth, shred the meat, and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the rolls.
- Prepare the Onions: Slice the red onions into medium-thick slices; a food processor with a slicing attachment can speed this up.
- Sauté the Onions: In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil on medium-low. Add the sliced onions and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until onions are softened and lightly golden.
- Toast the Almonds: In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over low heat. Add the slivered almonds and stir often until they turn lightly toasted. Set aside.
- Combine Chicken and Spices: Add the shredded chicken to the sautéed onions along with allspice, cinnamon, sumac, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and mix well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Remove from heat, then stir in the toasted almonds.
- Assemble the Rolls: Cut the flatbread into long strips. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken and onion filling on each strip and roll it up tightly. Folding in the edges to secure is optional.
- Bake and Broil: Arrange the rolls in an oiled 9×13 inch casserole dish. Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes. Then switch to broil for 5 minutes to get a golden and crispy finish.
- Serve: Garnish with extra sumac if desired and serve hot alongside yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Notes
- Markouk bread is traditional but Lebanese pita or tortillas can be used as a substitute if unavailable.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be used to skip the broth-making step for faster preparation.
- Watch the almonds carefully while toasting to avoid burning as they toast quickly at low heat.
- Broiling at the end is key to achieving a crispy, golden crust on the rolls.
- Serve with plain yogurt or a garlic yogurt sauce for added creaminess and balance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal