This traditional recipe is widely used in many Arabic dishes. It combines onion juice, spices, and oils to give the chicken a rich and distinctive flavor. The onion juice is mixed with your favorite spices like salt, black pepper, cumin, and Arabic spices, then the chicken pieces are soaked in this marinade for a few hours before grilling or cooking.

Ingredients:

1. ¼ cup onion juice
2. 1 grated tomato
3. 2 tablespoons of oil
4. 1 teaspoon vinegar
5. 1 teaspoon paprika
6. ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
7. ½ teaspoon sugar
8. ¼ teaspoon black pepper
9. ¼ teaspoon salt 

Healthy Alternatives in Marinades

• Replacing Sugar: Honey or date paste can be used to add a natural sweet taste.
• Reducing Oil: Replace it with yogurt or a little water with vinegar to maintain tenderness and flavor.
• Using Less Salt: It can be substituted with lemon juice or low-sodium soy sauce to enhance the flavor.

Steps to Prepare the Marinade

Extracting Onion Juice:

1. Grate a medium-sized onion using a fine grater.
2. Place the grated onion in a clean cotton cloth and squeeze to extract the juice.

Preparing the Other Ingredients:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, add 1/4 cup of onion juice.
2. Mix in 1 grated tomato, 2 tablespoons of oil (e.g., olive oil), and 1 teaspoon of vinegar.

Adding the Spices:

1. Add 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder (optional), 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper.

Mixing the Ingredients:

1. Stir the mixture well using a spoon until the marinade is smooth and consistent.

Marinating the Chicken:

1. Make small cuts on the chicken pieces using a knife to allow better absorption of the marinade.
2. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 to 12 hours, depending on the time available.

Ingredient Substitutes

• Mustard:Replace with 1 teaspoon of yogurt for a creamy texture without the sharp taste.
• Chili Powder: Skip it if you prefer mild flavors or substitute it with smoked paprika for a unique flavor.
• Cooking Oil: Replace with olive oil for a richer, healthier flavor.
• Onion Juice: Use grated onion (strained) or a small amount of onion powder mixed with water if fresh onion juice is unavailable.

Serving Tips

With Side Dishes:

• Quinoa: Toss with lemon juice and parsley.
• Rice: Serve with kabsa-style rice, plain white rice, or turmeric-infused basmati rice.

Innovative Salads:

• Chickpea and pomegranate salad.
• Arugula salad with honey-mustard dressing.
• Quinoa tabbouleh.

Additions:

• Toasted Arabic bread.
• Garlic or yogurt sauce.

Storage Guidelines

Before Use:

1. Prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. For longer storage, freeze the marinade for up to one month.

After Mixing with Chicken:

1. Use the marinated chicken within 24 hours if stored in the refrigerator.
2. Avoid refreezing marinated chicken that has been thawed.

Cooking Methods:

Grilling:

1. Preheat the grill.
2. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grate, turning them occasionally until golden and cooked through (about 10-15 minutes per side).

Baking in the Oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Place the chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
3. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil to brown the surface for an additional 10 minutes.

Frying:

1. Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet.
2. Cook the chicken over medium heat, covering the skillet, and turning occasionally until fully cooked (10-15 minutes).

Steaming:

1. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer inside a steamer.
2. Cook over medium heat for 20-25 minutes. 

Tailoring for Different Groups:

For Children:

1. Replace chili powder with smoked paprika or 1 teaspoon of ketchup for a sweet and mild flavor.
2. Serve with mashed or fried potatoes.

For Special Diets:

1. Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
2. Substitute vinegar with lemon juice to reduce acidity.
3. Pair with quinoa or fresh green salad instead of rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should chicken be marinated?

   Ideally, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours for good flavor. For the best results, marinate for 6-12 hours in the refrigerator.

2. Can the same marinade be used for other meats?

   Yes, this marinade works well with red meats like lamb or beef and can also be used for fish if the spice level is reduced.

3. What is the best cooking method for perfect results?
   • Grilling: Adds a smoky flavor and crispy surface.
   • Baking: Ensures even cooking and allows for adding vegetables for a complete meal.
   • Steaming: Retains the chicken's juices and tenderness.

4. Can the marinade be prepared in advance?

   Yes, prepare the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to one month.

5. How can the marinade be adjusted for sweetness or spiciness?
   • To increase sweetness: Add 1/2 teaspoon of honey or date syrup.
   • To enhance spiciness: Add more chili powder or a dash of lemon juice.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of Ingredients:

1. 1/4 Cup Onion Juice:
   • Calories: Approximately 15 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and small amounts of fiber.
   • Health Benefit: Enhances the immune system and fights inflammation with its antibacterial properties.
2. 1 Grated Tomato:
   • Calories: Approximately 22 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: High in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and lycopene.
   • Health Benefit: Acts as an antioxidant, improves heart health, and promotes healthy skin.
3. 2 Tablespoons of Oil (e.g., Olive Oil):
   • Calories: Approximately 240 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and Vitamin E.
   • Health Benefit: Supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and helps with nutrient absorption.
4. 1 Teaspoon Vinegar:
   • Calories: Less than 5 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Contains acetic acid along with some vitamins and minerals in small quantities.
   • Health Benefit: Aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
5. 1 Teaspoon Paprika:
   • Calories: Approximately 6 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and antioxidants.
   • Health Benefit: Boosts immunity and improves blood circulation.
6. 1/2 Teaspoon Chili Powder (Optional):
   • Calories: Approximately 3 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Contains Vitamin C and capsaicin (an active compound).
   • Health Benefit: Speeds up metabolism and reduces inflammation.
7. 1/2 Teaspoon Sugar:
   • Calories: Approximately 8 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Simple carbohydrates that provide quick energy.
   • Health Benefit: Adds a mild sweetness to the food but should be consumed in moderation.
8. 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper:
   • Calories: Approximately 2 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Contains piperine, Vitamin K, and manganese.
   • Health Benefit: Improves nutrient absorption and has anti-inflammatory properties.
9. 1/4 Teaspoon Salt:
   • Calories: 0 kcal.
   • Nutritional Value: Contains sodium.
   • Health Benefit: Helps maintain fluid balance in the body; however, should be consumed in moderation to avoid high blood pressure.

Total Nutritional Values for the Marinade:

• Calories: 301 kcal
• Protein: 10.65 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15.5 grams
• Fat: 6.1 grams

General Health Benefits of the Ingredients Combined:

• Onion Juice:
  • Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds.
  • Promotes heart health, boosts immunity, and aids digestion.
• Grated Tomato:
  • Packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
  • Supports heart health, protects against chronic diseases, and promotes glowing skin.
• Cooking Oil (e.g., Olive Oil):
  • Provides healthy fats that benefit heart health.
  • Reduces inflammation, enhances brain function, and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A and E.
• Vinegar:
  • Regulates blood sugar levels and supports healthy digestion.
  • Possesses antibacterial properties that promote gut health.
• Paprika:
  • Rich in antioxidants that boost the immune system and improve circulation.
  • Contains Vitamin A, beneficial for eye health.
• Chili Powder:
  • Contains capsaicin, which boosts metabolism and reduces pain.
  • Promotes healthy circulation and helps manage inflammation.
• Sugar:
  • Provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation to prevent blood sugar spikes.
• Black Pepper:
  • Enhances nutrient absorption and supports digestion.
  • Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Salt:
  • Essential for electrolyte balance and proper muscle and nerve function.
  • Should be consumed in moderation to avoid high blood pressure.

Overall benefit of all ingredients:

These ingredients combined provide a rich blend of nutrients, such as antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. They contribute to improving heart health, boosting immunity, and regulating the digestive system, while improving taste and adding nutritional value to food.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can marinated chicken be grilled directly, or should it reach room temperature first?
  → It is best to take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator 15-30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent it from drying out during grilling.
• Can the amount of oil in the marinade be reduced without affecting the taste?
  → Yes, oil can be replaced with yogurt or a little water with vinegar to maintain flavor and tenderness without increasing calories.
• What is the difference between using onion juice and chopped onions in a marinade?
  → Onion juice penetrates the chicken quickly and provides a strong flavor without leaving the texture of chopped onions. In contrast, chopped onions may stick to the surface of the chicken and affect the grilling process.
• How can the strong taste of onions in the marinade be reduced?
  → The amount of onion juice can be reduced, or a teaspoon of honey or yogurt can be added to balance the flavor and make it milder.