Preparing for Ramadan with a Traditional Palestinian Dish: Musakhan Chicken

As Ramadan approaches, Palestinian families around the world begin preparing their kitchens and their hearts for a month of fasting, reflection, and togetherness. One of the most beautiful aspects of this holy month is the deep connection to food—meals that nourish not just the body but also the soul. Among the many beloved dishes prepared during Ramadan, Musakhan Chicken holds a special place in Palestinian cuisine, deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the land.

While many might immediately think of Maqloube as Palestine’s signature dish, Musakhan Chicken is an equally authentic and historically significant meal. Unlike today, when rice is a common staple in Palestinian cooking, the region traditionally relied on wheat. Wheat was widely grown and used for millenia, making bread—especially whole wheat, homemade breads like taboon—an essential part of daily life.

What is Musakhan Chicken?

Musakhan is a rich, flavorful dish that brings together simple, yet bold ingredients native to Palestine. Whole chickens are roasted to perfection, then placed on top of warm, freshly baked taboon bread. The bread is generously coated with vibrant green olive oil. The dish is then topped with an abundance of caramelized onions and sumac, a tart and citrusy spice that grows wild in the hills of Palestine. Each bite is a reflection of the land’s deep agricultural history, featuring ingredients that have been cultivated for generations. 

The Significance of Musakhan During Ramadan

Ramadan is a time to embrace the culinary traditions passed down through families and generations. Musakhan’s use of staple Palestinian ingredients—sumac, olive oil, and taboon bread—makes it an ideal dish for Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. The slow-roasted chicken provides much-needed sustenance, the onions add a touch of natural sweetness, and the olive oil-rich bread offers comforting warmth. Sharing a meal like Musakhan with loved ones embodies the spirit of Ramadan: gratitude, hospitality, and the celebration of heritage.

Make Musakhan at Home

As you prepare for Ramadan this year, consider bringing the flavors of Palestine into your home by making Musakhan Chicken. Whether you are reconnecting with your roots or discovering this dish for the first time, cooking Musakhan is a way to honor the land, its people, and the rich culinary traditions that have endured for centuries.

For a wonderful Musakhan recipe, check out this authentic version from Fufu’s Kitchen.

You can also find sumac in our Ramadan Gift Box!