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Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Shawarma Chicken and Rice
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Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a quick, flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish combining tender, spiced chicken thighs with fragrant basmati rice. This simple yet aromatic meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a balanced, protein-rich option that is both versatile and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

  • 4 boneless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons shawarma spice mix (cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
  • 1 small onion, chopped (for sautéing)
  • 1 1/4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Garnishes (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Tahini sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, chopped onion, lemon juice, olive oil, shawarma spice mix, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness. Set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest.
  4. Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add extra olive oil if necessary. Sauté chopped onion until fragrant. Add the rinsed rice and stir well to coat with oil and residual spices. Pour in water or chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and gently fold into the cooked rice. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately, optionally with tahini sauce.

Notes

  • For maximum flavor and tenderness, marinate chicken overnight when possible.
  • Use fresh, high-quality spices for best flavor results.
  • Rinsing the rice prevents clumping and keeps it fluffy.
  • Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes to retain juices before slicing.
  • Taste and adjust salt carefully before serving to balance flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shawarma, Chicken, Basmati Rice, Middle Eastern, One-pot meal, Gluten Free, Spiced Chicken, Quick Dinner

Find it online: https://sophiemelody.com/shawarma-chicken-and-rice/