One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal, this One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is perfect. It’s packed with vibrant flavors from Middle Eastern spices, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The one-pan aspect means less cleanup, while the tender chicken and fluffy rice come together in a dish that will impress everyone at the table.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Cook Rice
• Step 4: Simmer and Steam
• Step 5: Season and Garnish
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice
• With Fresh Salad
• With Pita Bread
• With Sauces
• With Pickles
• How to Perfect One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice
• Reheating One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?
• Can I use other types of meat?
• How do I customize One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• How spicy is this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With everything cooked in one pot, you save time on both cooking and cleaning.
• Flavorful Dish: The blend of spices creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that elevates simple chicken and rice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is or pair it with your favorite sides like salad or pita bread.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it great for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep frying pan: This allows you to cook everything evenly without overcrowding, ensuring perfect results.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for marinating the chicken with the spices, which enhances the flavor.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pan’s surface.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, raw (trimmed of visible fat) – approx 600g (21oz)
– 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
– 2 teaspoons of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– ¾ teaspoon of salt
– ½ teaspoon of black pepper
– ½ teaspoon of turmeric
– ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom
– ¼ teaspoon of chilli flakes (red pepper flakes) – can use more if you prefer
– 1.5 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 medium onion, halved and finely sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
– 180g (1 cup) of uncooked long grain rice
– 2 cups (480ml) of hot chicken stock
– salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill

How to Make One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken thighs in half horizontally. Add them to a bowl with the seasonings and lemon juice. Mix until they are well coated in the spices.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan. Fry them for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Scatter chopped onion and minced garlic around when flipping the chicken.

Step 3: Cook Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the pan with the chicken. Cook for about a minute until it becomes slightly translucent. Pour in hot chicken stock and gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Simmer and Steam

Let everything bubble on medium heat with the lid off until most stock is absorbed by rice. Avoid stirring during this phase. Once absorbed, cover with a lid, turn off heat, and let it steam undisturbed for about 12 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

After steaming, carefully remove the lid. Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in freshly chopped parsley and dill for added freshness.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your flavorful One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice warm with your choice of sides like salad or yogurt sauce if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat complements the warm spices beautifully.
• Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cool yogurt-based salad adds a creamy texture that balances the dish’s flavors.

With Pita Bread

• Warm Pita: Serve warm pita bread on the side for dipping into the chicken and rice. It’s perfect for scooping up flavorful bites.
• Stuffed Pita: Fill pita pockets with leftover shawarma chicken, lettuce, and a drizzle of tahini sauce for an easy lunch.

With Sauces

• Tahini Sauce: Drizzle tahini over the dish for a nutty flavor that pairs well with chicken.
• Garlic Sauce: A tangy garlic sauce adds an extra kick and enhances the overall taste.

With Pickles

• Middle Eastern Pickles: A side of pickled vegetables offers a crunchy contrast and brightens up the meal.

How to Perfect One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Getting your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice just right is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure perfection every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices deliver more flavor than pre-ground varieties. Consider grinding them yourself for optimal taste.
• Sear Properly: Make sure you sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden brown. This step locks in juices and enhances flavor.
• Check Rice Doneness: After steaming, check if rice is tender. If not, add a splash of water and steam a bit longer.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference for an extra flavor boost.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or dill at the end to preserve their vibrant color and fresh taste.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that adds richness; serve with pita chips or veggies.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make for a healthy complement.
3. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad with crispy pita chips, mixed greens, and tangy dressing works well alongside.
4. Baba Ganoush: Smoky eggplant dip that enhances the Middle Eastern theme; perfect for spreading on bread.
5. Garlic Lemon Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter bring brightness to your plate.
6. Fragrant Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest provides a light yet filling option alongside your main dish.
7. Spiced Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices offer a nutritious snack or side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when preparing One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in spices and lemon juice can lead to bland flavors. Always give it time to absorb those delicious seasonings.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken thighs in the pan can prevent proper searing. Make sure there’s enough space for each piece to cook evenly.
• Lifting the Lid Too Soon: Opening the lid while the rice is steaming can release steam and affect cooking. Keep it covered for the entire steaming time for best results.
• Ignoring Proper Rice Measurements: Using too much or too little rice will alter the dish’s texture. Stick to the specified rice-to-liquid ratios for perfect results.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can result in a lackluster dish. Always check flavors before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated throughout, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a flavorful dish made by cooking marinated chicken thighs with spices and rice in one pot. It’s easy to prepare and packed with taste.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I customize One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots during cooking for added nutrition. Experiment with different spices based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice makes a great meal prep option as it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level varies based on your choice of chili flakes. You can adjust it according to your taste; omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or packing it for lunch, it promises satisfaction with every bite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices!