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One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice for Effortless Flavor

This One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice combines tender chicken with fluffy rice in a vibrant, low-calorie, high-protein dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Chicken breasts can be substituted but may dry out.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can swap with vegetable oil or ghee.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Essential for enhancing flavors.
For the Spice Mix
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Coriander can also enhance this flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Complements cumin.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Use smoked for an extra punch.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Consider white pepper for a milder touch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Offers beautiful color.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cardamom Can be replaced with garam masala.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust quantity according to preference.
For the Base
  • 1.5 cups Long Grain Rice Basmati or jasmine rice can be alternatives.
  • 3 cups Chicken Stock Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Other onion types or shallots can also work.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Substitute with garlic powder if needed.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can be omitted if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Dill Optional but enhances the aroma.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Large deep pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by slicing the boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with your spices—ground cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, turmeric, ground cardamom, and chili flakes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, ensuring each piece is coated. Let this marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb vibrant flavors.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer, allowing it to sear for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip halfway through to achieve an even color. As the chicken cooks, add diced onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Once the chicken is beautifully brown, stir in 1 ½ cups of long grain rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the fragrant oil and spices. Let it cook for about 2 minutes until the rice turns slightly translucent. Pour in 3 cups of chicken stock, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Bring this mixture to a gentle bubble, ensuring the chicken remains submerged.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan tightly with a lid. Allow the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice to simmer undisturbed for 12 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time.
  5. After 12 minutes, turn off the heat and let the dish sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time helps the final textures develop.
  6. Once ready, quickly lift the lid and fluff the rice with a fork, then adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of dried dill.
  7. Spoon the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice onto warmed plates or a large serving platter. Enjoy this comforting dish immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Gently reheat to maintain moisture and flavor.

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