Go Back
Discover the authentic taste of Morocco with this Rfissa recipe, featuring tender chicken, flavorful lentils, and aromatic spices. Perfect for special occasions or comforting family meals.

Rfissa

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken about 3-4 lbs, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 4 tablespoons butter optional, for extra richness
  • 1 package of msemen Moroccan flatbread, torn into pieces (or you can use other types of flatbread or pita bread as a substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for serving
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar optional, for a touch of sweetness

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken and Broth:

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the pot along with the ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, saffron (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices.
  • Pour in the chicken broth (or water), bring to a simmer, and cover the pot. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.

Cook the Lentils:

  • Once the chicken is cooked, add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender, and the broth has thickened slightly.

Prepare the Flatbread (Msemen):

  • While the chicken and lentils are cooking, tear the msemen (or your chosen flatbread) into small pieces. If using pre-made flatbread, you can lightly toast it in a dry pan for a few minutes until it’s crispy, then tear it into pieces.

Assemble the Rfissa:

  • Once the chicken, lentils, and broth are ready, remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat, discarding the bones.
  • In a large serving dish, place the torn pieces of flatbread (msemen) at the bottom. Pour a little of the flavorful broth over the bread to soften it.
  • Layer the shredded chicken and lentils over the bread. Pour the remaining broth and lentils on top of the chicken. If you want an extra rich flavor, drizzle with melted butter.

Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and cilantro. Sprinkle ground cinnamon and, optionally, a little powdered sugar over the top for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the dish if you prefer.
For a richer taste: You can add a little extra butter or ghee to the broth for more richness.