The Ultimate One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe

Crafting a delightful one pot shawarma chicken and rice meal brings comfort and excitement to your kitchen adventure.

Aromas of warm spices will soon fill your home with mouthwatering anticipation.

Middle Eastern flavors blend seamlessly in this simple yet spectacular dish.

Tender chicken pieces nestle perfectly alongside fluffy rice, creating a harmonious meal that satisfies deeply.

Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor define this culinary experience for busy home cooks.

Fragrant herbs and bold spices transform ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this remarkable recipe.

Variations to Customize Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Vegetarian Shawarma Rice: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, marinate using same spices, and follow original cooking method for a plant-based version.
• Cauliflower Rice Alternative: Swap traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, maintaining all original spices and cooking technique.
• Gluten-Free Mediterranean Version: Use quinoa instead of rice, ensure all spices are certified gluten-free, and keep the same marinating and cooking process.
• Instant Pot Express: Transfer all ingredients to instant pot, cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, natural release for 10 minutes for a quicker preparation method.

Serving Suggestions for Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Flavor Fusion Plating: Serve on a large family-style platter with rice and chicken arranged beautifully, sprinkled with fresh herbs and nuts for a stunning presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
• Mediterranean Mezze Companion: Pair with classic sides like creamy hummus, tangy tzatziki, crisp cucumber salad, and warm pita bread to create a complete Middle Eastern dining experience.
• Fresh Brightness Boost: Top with extra fresh lemon wedges, a dollop of additional yogurt, and a sprinkle of chopped herbs to add zesty freshness and enhance the dish's vibrant flavors.
• Spice Level Customization: Offer hot sauce or harissa on the side, allowing each person to adjust the heat level according to their personal spice preference and enjoyment.

Storage Tips for One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring food safety and maintaining flavor.
• Transfer cooled chicken and rice to freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly and freeze for maximum 2-3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few tablespoons water to prevent drying. Cover with microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs are more flavorful and tender. Just reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The spice blend creates warmth but not intense heat. If you prefer more spiciness, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.

• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free and check spice blend ingredients.

• What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or basmati rice are ideal. They absorb flavors well and maintain a fluffy texture during cooking.

One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice with Bold Middle Eastern Flavors

• Savor Authentic Flavors: Enjoy a mouthwatering blend of Middle Eastern spices that transform ordinary chicken and rice into an extraordinary culinary experience.
• Simplify Cooking Process: Create a delicious meal with minimal cleanup using just one pot, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum taste with minimal effort.
• Pack Nutritious Goodness: Combine protein-rich chicken, wholesome rice, and vibrant vegetables into a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and provides essential nutrients for the whole family.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adding your favorite toppings like raisins or almonds, making it a versatile dish that welcomes personal creativity and different taste preferences.

Ingredients for One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Chicken Thighs: Tender meat that absorbs rich spices and provides the main protein for the dish.

• Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Turmeric, Cinnamon, Allspice, Black Pepper, Ginger, Cardamom: A warm and complex spice mixture that creates a traditional shawarma flavor profile.
• Salt: Enhances overall seasoning and balances the spice blend.

• Olive Oil: Helps distribute spices and adds richness to the chicken.
• Onion, Garlic: Provides aromatic base and depth of flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Yogurt: Contributes creamy texture and helps tenderize the meat.

• Rice: The hearty base that absorbs the chicken's flavorful juices.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the rice's taste.
• Tomato: Brings acidity and moisture to the dish.
• Frozen Peas: Adds color, sweetness, and nutritional value.

• Parsley, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that provide a bright, clean finish.
• Raisins, Slivered Almonds: Optional toppings that add texture and sweetness.

How to Cook One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Easily

Step 1: Whip Up Shawarma Chicken Marinade

• Olive oil
• Diced onion
• Minced garlic
• Ground cumin
• Crushed coriander
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon
• Allspice
• Black pepper
• Fresh ginger
• Cardamom
• Salt
• Fresh lemon juice
• Creamy yogurt

Massage the marinade into the chicken and let it soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Sear The Marinated Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Brown the marinated chicken thighs on both sides until they develop a beautiful golden crust.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Build The Aromatic Rice Base

In the same pot, add rice, chicken broth, chopped tomatoes, and frozen peas.

Stir everything together to create a fragrant foundation.

Step 4: Layer And Simmer The Dish

Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.

Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the delicious liquid.

Step 5: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley, cilantro, raisins, and slivered almonds over the dish.

Serve piping hot and enjoy the explosion of Middle Eastern flavors.

Pro Tips for Tender and Flavorful Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Let chicken sit in the spice blend for at least 2 hours or overnight to develop deeper, more intense flavors that penetrate every fiber.
• Rinse rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy after simmering.
• Adjust spice quantities to personal preference, but maintain the ratio to preserve the authentic shawarma taste profile.
• Replace chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts or lamb for variety, adjusting cooking time to prevent drying out.
• Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate version that still captures the recipe's rich Middle Eastern essence.

Flavorful One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice combines aromatic spices with tender chicken and fluffy rice. Hearty comfort meets international flavor in this simple, satisfying meal you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon salt

Base Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 cup plain yogurt

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Instructions

1. Combine chicken thighs with a robust blend of aromatic spices including cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, ginger, and cardamom. Add olive oil, minced onion, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and yogurt for a comprehensive marinade. Allow flavors to meld for minimum 30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sear marinated chicken thighs until golden brown on both surfaces. Transfer chicken to a separate plate, preserving the flavorful pan drippings.
3. In the identical pot, layer uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and frozen peas. Thoroughly mix ingredients to distribute seasonings evenly.
4. Strategically arrange seared chicken thighs atop the rice mixture. Increase heat to generate a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce to low. Cover pot and allow to simmer for 20-25 minutes, ensuring rice becomes tender and liquid completely absorbs.
5. Once cooking concludes, carefully uncover and fluff rice with a fork. Embellish the dish with freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, scattered raisins, and delicate slivered almonds. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Marinate chicken for maximum flavor depth by letting it sit in the spice mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
• Customize spice blend by adjusting heat levels and experimenting with different Middle Eastern spice combinations for personalized taste.
• Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for quicker cooking and easier eating, ensuring tender and juicy meat that absorbs marinade beautifully.
• Transform recipe into vegetarian version by substituting chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, maintaining the rich aromatic spice profile while creating a plant-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 345 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg