One pot chicken shawarma rice brings together the vibrant flavors of shawarma with the hearty comfort of rice in one simple dish. This delicious meal allows you to experience a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right from your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
One pot chicken shawarma rice is not only easy to prepare, but it also saves you time on cleanup. With all ingredients cooked in just one pot, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without the hassle of washing multiple dishes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and fancy enough for entertaining guests. Plus, the chicken is tender, the rice is infused with spices, and any leftovers make for satisfying lunches the next day!
How to Make One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
Gather your ingredients and follow these simple steps for a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups rice (long grain or basmati)
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Yogurt, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken thighs and sprinkle the shawarma spice mix over them. Cook until the chicken is browned.
- Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the chicken shawarma rice with yogurt and garnish with parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success With One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
- Use High-Quality Spices: Shawarma spice mix plays a crucial role in this dish. If possible, use freshly ground spices for enhanced flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Make sure there’s enough space in your pot for the chicken to brown properly. If necessary, brown the chicken in batches.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your preference for the best flavor.
- Experiment with Cooking Times: If you like your rice firmer or softer, adjust the cooking time slightly based on your personal preference.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley and a dollop of yogurt elevate the dish, adding freshness and creaminess that complements the spices.
Flavor Variations for One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in with the rice during the last five minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños to the chicken while it’s browning.
- Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest can add a bright flavor. Sprinkle it on just before serving.
- Different Protein: Swap out chicken for lamb or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. The spices will work beautifully with either choice.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds right before serving for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions for One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
- Pair with a Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a tangy lemon dressing complements the richness of the rice.
- Serve with Flatbreads: Warm pita or naan can be perfect for sopping up all the delicious flavors of your dish.
- Add Hummus: A side of hummus can add creaminess and a contrasting texture, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Top with Crumbled Feta: Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor that works well with the spices in the rice and chicken.
- Accompany with Pickled Vegetables: Pickles provide a delightful crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the dish.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to three months. Allow it to cool entirely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————|———-|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breast can be used instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that thighs tend to be more tender and juicy. If you use breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you want to use a different oil, canola, sunflower, or avocado oil are all great alternatives for cooking. They have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, allowing the spices to shine.
What if I don’t have shawarma spice mix?
If you can’t find pre-made shawarma spice mix, you can create your own using equal parts of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. Add garlic powder and black pepper to taste for a rounded flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed in this recipe are gluten-free. However, always double-check labels on packaged ingredients like chicken broth and diced tomatoes to avoid hidden gluten.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the recipe vegetarian, omit the chicken and replace it with chickpeas or lentils. You can still use the same spices, along with sautéed vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower, to create a hearty variation.
Final Thoughts
One pot chicken shawarma rice combines ease, flavor, and comfort in one delicious meal. This recipe is not only simple but also encourages culinary creativity, allowing you to add your flair or ingredient preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors to make it your own!
Print
One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and easy one-pot meal that combines the vibrant flavors of shawarma with hearty rice, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups rice (long grain or basmati)
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Yogurt, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken thighs and sprinkle the shawarma spice mix over them. Cook until the chicken is browned.
- Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the chicken shawarma rice with yogurt and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality spices for enhanced flavor. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
