Fly First Class From Your Kitchen: Emirates-Inspired Recipes to Live (and Dine) Like Royalty

One of my greatest joys as a traveler is immersing myself in the local culture—and more often than not, that journey begins with food. Whether I’m exploring bustling markets, savoring a chef’s signature dish, or taking a cooking class with locals, food tells a story. And sometimes, that culinary adventure takes place in the most unexpected setting—35,000 feet above the ground.

As part of my Emirates recipe series, I’m thrilled to share the second installment: Chicken Bzar—a beloved Emirati dish that’s both comforting and complex, traditionally served aboard Emirates First Class. With rich flavors and aromatic spices, this recipe brings the luxury of the skies straight to your table.

Chicken Bzar

A fragrant, spice-laden dish that captures the soul of Emirati cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• Basmati rice – 5 cups

• Onion (chopped) – 1 ⅓ cups

• Garlic (chopped) – 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon

• Ibzar spice* – 1 tablespoon

• Turmeric powder – 1 ½ teaspoons

• Emirati ghee or clarified butter – 2 teaspoons

• Salt – 2 teaspoons

• Tomato paste – 2 ½ tablespoons

• Saffron (diluted in water) – 2 teaspoons

• Water – 6 ⅓ cups

For the Chicken:

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – 6 pieces (about 1 lb)

• Onion (chopped) – 1 ⅓ cups

• Garlic (chopped) – 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon

• Ibzar spice – 1 tablespoon

• Turmeric powder – 1 ½ teaspoons

• Tomato paste – 2 ½ tablespoons

• Emirati ghee or clarified butter – 2 teaspoons

• Salt – 2 teaspoons

For Garnish:

• Fried potato cubes – about 3 ½ cups

• Cashew nuts – 2 tablespoons

• Chopped fresh coriander – to garnish

Ibzar is a traditional Emirati spice blend. If unavailable, a mix of black pepper, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves can substitute.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bzar Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak in water for 1 hour.

2. In a large pot, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened.

3. Add the ibzar spice, turmeric, ghee, salt, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.

4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.

5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Cook uncovered until the water has nearly evaporated.

6. Drizzle in the diluted saffron, cover, and simmer on very low heat for 10–15 minutes.

Step 2: Marinate & Roast the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix all chicken marinade ingredients. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

2. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Roast chicken for about 12–15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden.

To Serve:
Plate the fluffy spiced rice, top with the roasted chicken thighs, and garnish with crispy potato cubes, toasted cashews, and fresh coriander.

This comforting and aromatic dish is more than a meal—it’s a cultural passport. Whether you're planning your next journey or simply dreaming from your kitchen, Chicken Bzar offers a taste of the Emirates that you won’t soon forget.