One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is an effortless, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken seasoned with aromatic shawarma spices and fluffy rice, it’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly and with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup rice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons shawarma spices
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with shawarma spices, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden and cooked through.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the rice, coating it with the spices and oil.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in shawarma spices and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use basmati rice for a more fragrant and fluffy texture.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
• Serve with a side of yogurt or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the spices.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use long-grain or jasmine rice, but cooking times may vary slightly. Adjust the liquid accordingly to ensure the rice cooks properly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and spices.

One-Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 122 reviews

A simple and flavorful one-pot dish featuring tender, spiced shawarma chicken cooked together with fragrant rice. This easy-to-make recipe combines the rich taste of Middle Eastern shawarma spices with the convenience of one-pot cooking for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Rice and Spices

• 1.5 cups long grain basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix (a blend of cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, and black pepper)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken pieces along with the shawarma spices and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is well browned on all sides.
2. Add rice and liquid: Pour in the rinsed basmati rice and chicken broth (or water). Stir gently to combine everything evenly in the pot.
3. Cook until fluffy: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork and serving.

Notes

• Shawarma spice mix can be store-bought or homemade for authentic flavor.
• Using chicken thighs helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
• Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Ensure the rice is rinsed well to avoid sticky texture.
• If you prefer, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water.

Keywords: shawarma chicken, one-pot meal, chicken and rice, Middle Eastern recipe, quick dinner