Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice recipe is a savory, aromatic dish that brings the bold flavors of the Middle East to your table. Infused with spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, the chicken is seared to perfection, while the rice cooks in all those delicious flavors, making it a hassle-free, all-in-one meal. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknights, it’s a comforting, nutritious dish with minimal cleanup required!

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken and Rice:

6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (approx. 600g or 21oz), trimmed of visible fat
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1/4 tsp chili flakes (red pepper flakes) – can adjust to taste
1.5 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, halved and finely sliced
3 cloves garlic, crushed
180g (1 cup) uncooked long grain rice
2 cups (480ml) chicken stock (hot)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
1/2 tsp dried dill

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken thighs in half horizontally. Add the chicken to a bowl with the seasonings and lemon juice. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated with the spices.
Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. During the second flip, scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic between the chicken thighs.
Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the pan with the chicken and cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally until the rice becomes translucent. Pour in the hot chicken stock and gently stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Simmer and Steam: Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered until the stock is absorbed by the rice. Do not stir during this period. Once the stock is absorbed, cover the pan with a lid, turn off the heat, and let it steam for 12 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time.
Season and Garnish: After 12 minutes, carefully remove the lid. Taste the dish and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh parsley and dried dill.
Serve: Serve the Shawarma Chicken and Rice with your choice of sides and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative. Simply season them with the same spices and follow the same steps.
Extra Veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the dish for more texture and flavor.
Rice Substitute: Swap the long-grain rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture or a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they can dry out more easily than thighs. You may need to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken for 2-3 hours or even overnight will infuse it with more flavor. However, it’s not necessary for this dish to be delicious!

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day ahead, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?

This meal pairs well with a simple side salad, hummus, or pita bread. For extra flavor, serve with a dollop of tzatziki or a squeeze of lemon.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and rice for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container, and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove when ready to serve.

Conclusion

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is the perfect dish for busy nights when you want something flavorful and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to be customized to your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress!