One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe: Easy & Flavorful!

As a busy mom of two, I’m always on the lookout for simple yet flavorful recipes that don’t require hours in the kitchen. This Easy One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice recipe ticks all the boxes! It’s packed with all the bold spices of the Middle East, without the hassle of using multiple pans or complicated techniques. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a casual gathering, this Chicken Shawarma Rice dish is a winner. Whether you’re craving something exotic or just looking for an easy one-pot rice meal, this one’s a must-try.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to experience the authentic flavors of shawarma chicken while keeping things simple. Let’s dive into why this shawarma rice recipe should be on your weekly meal rotation.

What is One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?

At its core, Shawarma Chicken is a flavorful, spiced meat traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie. In this dish, we’re transforming that into a cozy, one-pot rice meal. The rich spices and marinated chicken cook together with fluffy rice, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also very comforting. The beauty of Chicken Shawarma and Rice is how the rice absorbs all the flavors of the chicken, making each bite packed with flavor.

This shawarma rice recipe stands out because it brings together the elements of Middle Eastern street food in a home-friendly way. The combination of tangy yogurt, zesty lemon, warm spices, and tender chicken creates an irresistible dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients List For One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this shawarma chicken and rice dish:

• Chicken thighs (skinless, bone-in or boneless) – 1 ½ pounds
• Basmati rice – 1 ½ cups (you can also try yellow rice for shawarma for a color boost)
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Greek yogurt – ½ cup (for marinating)
• Garlic cloves – 4, minced
• Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
• Onion – 1 medium, chopped
• Chicken broth – 3 cups
• Tomatoes – 1 large, diced
• Cucumber – for garnish, optional
• Fresh parsley – for garnish, optional

Shawarma Spice Mix:

• Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
• Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
• Ground paprika – 2 teaspoons
• Ground turmeric – 1 teaspoon
• Ground cinnamon – ½ teaspoon
• Ground cardamom – ½ teaspoon
• Ground black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper – ¼ teaspoon (optional for heat)
• Salt – 1 teaspoon

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is super versatile, allowing for a range of substitutions depending on what you have on hand:

• Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have chicken thighs, boneless chicken breasts or even lamb can be used to create a similar shawarma rice bowl experience.
• Rice: While basmati is the best for fluffiness, you can swap it with jasmine or even try one-pot chicken shawarma and orzo if you want a pasta twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of shawarma rice.
• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne to your liking or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder version of this authentic shawarma rice recipe.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and the shawarma spice mix. Coat the chicken thighs in this mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Set the chicken aside but keep all those flavorful bits in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Tomatoes

In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until soft, then add diced tomatoes and cook until they break down. This forms the base of the shawarma rice flavor.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the basmati rice, coating it with the onion-tomato mixture. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Cook

Nestle the chicken back into the pot, ensuring it’s partly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the chicken shawarma rice to cook through.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and cucumber slices for a bright, fresh touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Using too much liquid: Excess liquid can lead to mushy rice, so stick to the measurements for that perfect shawarma chicken and rice texture.
• Skipping the marinade: The marinade adds depth to the chicken shawarma. Don’t skip it, as it’s crucial for getting those signature flavors.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Serving and Presentation Tips

For a polished presentation, serve this dish in a wide, shallow bowl, topped with cucumber slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. A drizzle of tahini or a side of tzatziki adds a creamy balance to the dish. You can also serve it with warm pita bread or alongside a fresh cucumber-tomato salad for a complete meal.

For a lighter variation, turn it into a chicken shawarma rice bowl, layering the chicken and rice with crisp vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and pickled onions.

How to Serve One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

This dish is perfect on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, hummus, or a simple shawarma rice recipe-inspired salad for a more complete Middle Eastern spread.

Extra Recipe Tips For One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

• Meal Prep: This chicken shawarma rice recipe is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer Friendly: This recipe freezes well, so make a double batch and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Calories Information: If you’re counting calories, this dish can be made lighter by using skinless chicken breasts and less oil. The chicken shawarma with rice calories will vary depending on portion sizes, but it’s a healthy, balanced meal.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken works great in this dish but might take a little longer to cook.

What type of rice works best?
Basmati rice is ideal, but yellow rice for shawarma can be used for an extra pop of color.

How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a perfect balance of convenience and flavor. The comforting blend of spices combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice makes it a family favorite. Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful dish, whether you’re craving a flavorful meal or preparing a chicken shawarma rice bowl for lunch!