Broasted Chicken: The Crispy Delight Loved by Saudi Arabia
To fast food favorites, one dish reigns supreme: broasted chicken. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, it’s a comfort food that has earned its place in Saudi hearts, from family dinners to late-night snacks.
Love a crispy, juicy bite of broasted chicken? Ever wondered why it’s such a huge hit in Saudi Arabia? Let’s take you on a flavorful journey, exploring how this dish became a cultural staple, and why you can’t visit Saudi Arabia without tasting it!
What Is Broasted Chicken?
Broasted chicken is a combination of deep-frying and pressure-cooking that creates a deliciously crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Unlike regular fried chicken, broasting seals in moisture, making it flavorful with every bite.
The technique originated in the U.S. with the invention of the "Broaster" machine, but it quickly gained global popularity — and Saudi Arabia embraced it like no other country!
How Did Broasted Chicken Become Popular in Saudi Arabia?
The story of broasted chicken in Saudi Arabia dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, during the country’s oil boom when fast food began making its way into the region. With its unique texture and irresistible flavor, broasted chicken found a permanent place in the hearts of locals.
One brand, in particular, helped cement its popularity: Al Baik. Founded in Jeddah, this fast-food chain became synonymous with broasted chicken. Today, you’ll find it everywhere—from street vendors to luxury restaurants, making it a go-to meal for locals and tourists alike.
Why Saudis Love Broasted Chicken
1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
Broasted chicken in Saudi Arabia is more than just fried chicken. It’s marinated in a blend of garlic, paprika, cumin, and black pepper, giving it a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy skin.
2. A Family and Social Meal
In Saudi Arabia, food plays a major role in social gatherings. Large platters of broasted chicken are often shared during family dinners, weekend get-togethers, and even weddings.
3. The Al Baik Factor
No conversation about broasted chicken in Saudi Arabia is complete without mentioning Al Baik. Known for its crispy chicken and addictive garlic sauce, Al Baik has become a national icon. During Hajj, pilgrims from around the world flock to Al Baik locations in Makkah and Madinah for a taste of this culinary legend.
Broasted Chicken vs Fried Chicken
Broasted chicken and fried chicken might seem like similar dishes, but they’re actually quite different in both preparation and taste.
Broasted Chicken: Broasted chicken is a unique method that combines pressure cooking and deep frying. It’s cooked in a special pressure fryer, which seals in the moisture while crisping the exterior. The result is chicken that's incredibly juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The term “broasted” is a trademarked name, a blend of "broil" and "roast," though it's technically closer to frying. The cooking process makes broasted chicken faster and tends to retain more moisture than traditional frying, giving it a tender texture.
Fried Chicken: Fried chicken, on the other hand, is usually battered or breaded and deep-fried in hot oil. The chicken is often soaked in a seasoned marinade before coating it in flour and spices. While frying, the coating becomes crunchy, and the meat cooks through. The texture of fried chicken varies depending on the type of batter and the oil temperature. Some fried chicken is crispier, and others have a thicker, crunchier breading, but it can be drier compared to broasted chicken due to the lack of moisture retention from pressure cooking.
Key Differences:
- Moisture: Broasted chicken is juicier and more tender thanks to the pressure-cooking process.
- Crispiness: Fried chicken often has a more variable crunch, depending on the batter and frying method, but it can be crunchier than broasted chicken in some cases.
- Cooking Time: Broasted chicken cooks quicker due to the pressure fryer.
- Flavor: Broasted chicken often retains a more intense chicken flavor because of the moisture, while fried chicken can have a bolder, crispier coating.
In conclusion, both are delicious, but it comes down to personal preference. Broasted chicken is for those who crave tenderness and juiciness with a crispy exterior, while fried chicken is perfect for anyone who loves a crunchy, flavorful outer layer with a bit more oiliness.
Broasted Chicken as Street Food and Fast Food
Walk through the bustling streets of Jeddah or Riyadh, and you’re bound to find food stalls serving broasted chicken with sides of fries, garlic sauce, and khubz (Arabic bread). It’s a favorite for quick meals and late-night snacks, making it an integral part of street food culture.
Popular sides include:
- Fries
- Garlic sauce
- Pickles
- Hummus
How to Make Broasted Chicken at Home/ Recipe of Broasted Chicken
Want to recreate this Saudi favorite at home? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup flour (for coating)
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot.
- Coat the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
- Serve with garlic sauce, fries, and pickles for an authentic Saudi twist.
Broasted Chicken with Spice Nest Sauces: A Flavor Explosion!
Broasted chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, becomes even more irresistible with a variety of Spice Nest sauces. Here’s a quick look at the best sauce pairings:
1. Sweet Chili Sauce: A perfect balance of sweetness and heat that complements the chicken's crunch.
2. BBQ Sauce: Smoky and tangy, adding a backyard BBQ vibe to each bite.
3. Peri-Peri Sauce: Bold, fiery, and full of zest for those who love a spicy kick.
4. Red Chili Sauce: For spice lovers, this sauce delivers a fiery, intense heat.
5. Green Chili Sauce: A fresh, tangy, and spicy option that adds a cool balance.
6. Hot Sauce: Perfect for those who crave a no-holds-barred heat experience.
7. Sriracha Sauce: A blend of heat and garlic with a touch of sweetness, perfect for those who want a little extra zing.
8. Soy Sauce: Savory, salty, and umami-packed, soy sauce offers a rich and flavorful dip for broasted chicken.
Broasted Chicken and the Evolution of Saudi Arabia’s Food Scene
As Saudi Arabia’s food scene evolves, broasted chicken remains a constant. With international cuisines blending into the local palate, the love for this crispy comfort food hasn’t diminished. Al Baik and other local eateries continue to attract both locals and tourists, making broasted chicken a symbol of culinary nostalgia and modern taste.
Even with the introduction of healthier eating habits, modern versions of broasted chicken have emerged, including air-fried or oven-baked options for those who want to indulge guilt-free.
Top Restaurants for Broasted Chicken in Saudi Arabia
Craving broasted chicken? Saudi Arabia is a haven for this crispy, juicy delight. Here’s a quick guide to the best spots and cities to try it!
1. Jeddah: The Birthplace of Al Baik
- Al Baik: The iconic chain known for its crispy broasted chicken and garlic sauce.
- Broast Al Faraj: A local gem with flavorful, generously portioned meals.
- Kudu: A great option for broasted chicken with a twist.
2. Riyadh: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
- Al Baik: Now available in Riyadh, serving their signature chicken.
- Herfy: A local favorite for affordable broasted chicken.
- Al Tazaj: Famous for its fresh, broasted-style chicken.
3. Makkah: A Pilgrim’s Go-To
- Al Baik: Conveniently located near pilgrimage sites.
- Broast Express: A quick stop for crispy, satisfying chicken.
- Al Tajaz Broast: Known for its unique spice blends.
4. Madinah: Food with a Spiritual Touch
- Al Baik: Easily found near the Prophet’s Mosque.
- Chicken Broast House: Loved by locals for juicy, flavorful meals.
- Albaik Express: Perfect for grab-and-go dining.
5. Dammam: Coastal Flavor Haven
- Al Baik: A fan favorite here as well.
- Perfect Broast: Known for crispy, well-marinated chicken.
- Taza Broast: Affordable and flavorful.
Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Broasted Chicken
If you’re watching your calories or sodium intake, try these healthier alternatives:
- Air-fried broasted chicken: Less oil, same crispy texture.
- Baked broasted chicken: Use the same seasoning but bake it instead.
- Low-fat garlic sauce: Swap heavy cream-based sauces with yogurt-based dips.
Fun Fact: The Power of Al Baik’s Garlic Sauce
Did you know that Al Baik’s garlic sauce is almost as famous as its broasted chicken? For many Saudis, the meal isn’t complete without a generous dollop of this creamy, tangy sauce. Some people even say they come for the sauce and stay for the chicken!
Final Thoughts
Broasted chicken in Saudi Arabia is more than just food; it’s an experience that brings people together, whether at family dinners or during late-night street food runs. The dish’s cultural significance, thanks to its perfect blend of crispy and juicy, makes it a must-try for anyone visiting the Kingdom.
So, the next time you take a bite of broasted chicken, think about the rich history, the family gatherings, and the iconic Al Baik experience that have made this dish a Saudi favorite.
Have you tried broasted chicken in Saudi Arabia? Share your favorite memory or let us know how your homemade version turned out!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. Where will we get the best broasted chicken?
You can find the best broasted chicken at specialty chicken restaurants or fast-food chains like KFC, Church's Chicken, or local spots known for their crispy chicken.
2. Is broasted chicken healthy?
Broasted chicken is healthier than regular fried chicken as it uses less oil due to the pressure frying method. However, it’s still high in calories, so eat it in moderation.
3. How to make broasted chicken at home?
Marinate chicken in buttermilk and seasonings, coat in seasoned flour, and fry in a pressure fryer at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
4. What is broasted chicken?
Broasted chicken is chicken cooked in a pressure fryer, making it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside with less oil than regular fried chicken.
5. Is broasted chicken keto-friendly?
Broasted chicken can be keto-friendly if you use almond or coconut flour for the coating, as the chicken itself is low-carb.
6. How many calories in broasted chicken?
A piece of broasted chicken (100g) typically contains 250-350 calories, depending on the size and batter used.
