Flawless One Pot Shawarma Chicken & Rice Recipe in 30 Minutes

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Author: Rachel Evans
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One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, let’s talk one-pot meals! Seriously, who doesn’t love them? I mean, minimal dishes AND a delicious, home-cooked dinner? Sign me UP! And that’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this *One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe* with you. It’s a total game-changer, especially on those crazy weeknights when you’re juggling a million things.

This recipe is seriously a lifesaver. It combines the amazing flavors of chicken shawarma with the simplicity of a one-pot rice dish. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion! I remember the first time I had real shawarma from a street vendor – I was hooked! I knew I had to find a way to recreate that deliciousness at home, but without all the fuss. And after a bunch of tries? This is the winner, winner, chicken shawarma dinner!

It’s quick, it’s easy, and the aroma while it’s cooking? Forget about it! Your family will be begging for dinner way before it’s ready. So, ditch the takeout menus and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Quick and Easy One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Seriously, the best part is how FAST this is! I mean, everything cooks together in one pot. You just toss it all in and let it do its thing. No babysitting a bunch of different pans. Weeknight dinner? Solved!

Flavorful and Authentic Taste in One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, I’m not kidding – this tastes like the real deal! The shawarma spices are just *chef’s kiss*. You get that amazing Middle Eastern flavor without having to, you know, actually *go* to the Middle East. Though, I wouldn’t mind that!

Minimal Cleanup with this One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Raise your hand if you hate doing dishes! Yeah, me too. That’s why one-pot meals are my JAM. Just one pot to wash? I’ll take it! More time for Netflix, am I right?

Customizable Spice Level in Your One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Not everyone loves a ton of spice, and that’s cool! This recipe is super easy to adjust. Just add more or less of the shawarma spice blend to get it just how you like it. My kids like it mild, but I crank it up for myself. Win-win!

One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe Ingredients

Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to make this one-pot wonder happen. Don’t skimp on the spices, okay? That’s where the magic is!

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. I like thighs ’cause they stay juicy, but you could use chicken breast if you *really* want to.
  • 1 tbsp shawarma spice blend (store-bought is fine, or get fancy and make your own!).
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for that golden goodness).
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (don’t cry!).
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (garlic is life!).
  • 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed (nobody wants gummy rice!).
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred – you can always add salt later!).
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (adds a pop of color AND flavor).
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (brightens everything up!).
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (duh!).

How to Prepare One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, now for the fun part! Let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, it’s super easy, I promise. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe in no time!

Preparing the Chicken for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

First things first, grab a bowl and toss your chicken pieces with that shawarma spice blend. Make sure every piece is coated! This is where the flavor party starts. Now, if you’ve got the time, let it sit for at least 15 minutes – the longer, the better, so the spices really soak in. I sometimes do this in the morning before work, so it’s ready to go when I get home. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Cooking the One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Alright, heat up that tablespoon of olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Careful, it splatters! Add the chicken and cook it until it’s browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or it’ll steam instead of brown. You might need to do this in batches. Once the chicken is browned, take it out and set it aside.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe - detail 1

Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until they’re softened and fragrant – about 5 minutes. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now! Next, add the rinsed rice to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps toast the rice a little and adds a nice nutty flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then, return the chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked through. Don’t peek! Let it do its thing. If the rice is still a little wet, just let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes off the heat. It’ll absorb the extra liquid.

Finishing the One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, almost there! Stir in the chopped parsley and fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice really brightens up the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and you’re done! Serve it up hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Want to take this dish from “yum” to “OMG, this is amazing!”? Here are a few little secrets I’ve learned along the way. They’ll make all the difference, trust me!

Browning the Chicken for Flavor in One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Seriously, don’t skip the browning step! It’s tempting to just toss everything in the pot at once, but browning the chicken first creates this amazing, rich flavor base that infuses the whole dish. It’s like unlocking a secret level of deliciousness!

Choosing the Right Broth for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Broth matters, people! I usually go for low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the salt. But if you *really* want to kick things up a notch, try using bone broth. It adds this incredible depth of flavor that’s just…wow! You can find it at most grocery stores these days.

Avoiding Overcooked Rice in Your One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Nobody likes mushy rice! Keep an eye on it while it’s simmering. You want the rice to be cooked through, but still have a little bit of bite. If it’s starting to look dry before the rice is done, add a splash of extra broth. And remember, once it’s done, let it sit, covered, for a few minutes – that’s key to perfect rice!

Variations for Your One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, so you’ve nailed the basic recipe? Awesome! Now, let’s get a little crazy and mix things up! This One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe is like a blank canvas – ready for your culinary masterpiece!

Adding Vegetables to One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Go for it! I love adding chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, orange – the more colorful, the better!), diced tomatoes, or even a handful of spinach right at the end. Just stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking, so they don’t get too mushy.

Different Spices to Try in Your One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Feeling adventurous? Tweak the spices! A pinch of cumin adds a warm, earthy note. Coriander brings a little citrusy brightness. And turmeric? Hello, gorgeous color and anti-inflammatory benefits! Just don’t go overboard – a little goes a long way!

Topping Ideas for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, toppings are where it’s AT! A dollop of creamy yogurt is always a winner. Or, how about a sprinkle of salty feta cheese? And if you *really* want to take it to the next level, a drizzle of tahini sauce is pure magic. Seriously, try it!

One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe - detail 2

Serving Suggestions for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, so you’ve got this amazing One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe ready to go. But what do you serve with it? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal.

Side Dishes for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

A simple side salad is always a good choice! Something light and refreshing, like a cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Or, grab some warm pita bread for scooping up all that deliciousness! And of course, you can’t go wrong with some creamy hummus for dipping!

Garnishes for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Garnishes are like the jewelry of food – they just make everything look prettier! A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, adds a pop of color and flavor. A few lemon wedges are always a good idea for squeezing over the top. And if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of sumac adds a tangy, lemony kick!

Storing and Reheating Your One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Made too much? No problem! This One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe is just as good (maybe even better!) the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftover One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Just pop those leftovers into an airtight container and stick them in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to 3 days, easy peasy! I actually think the flavors meld together even more overnight. It’s like a gift to your future self!

Reheating One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

When you’re ready to dig in again, you’ve got options! You can zap it in the microwave for a few minutes until it’s heated through. Or, if you’re feeling a little fancier, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems a little dry. Just be sure to stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, quick disclaimer! I’m not a nutritionist, so I can’t give you exact numbers. The nutritional information for this One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use (like the brand of broth or the type of rice) and your portion sizes. Keep that in mind!

Common Questions About One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are a few of the most common things people ask me about this One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe. Don’t be shy – if you’ve got more questions, just leave a comment below!

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs in One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe?

You *can*, but honestly, I wouldn’t! Chicken thighs are just so much more flavorful and juicy. Chicken breast tends to dry out more easily, especially in a one-pot dish. If you *do* use chicken breast, keep a close eye on it and maybe reduce the cooking time a bit to avoid it getting tough.

Can I make One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead meal. Just follow the recipe as usual, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

What if my One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe is too dry?

Oops! No worries, it happens. If your rice is cooked but the dish seems a little dry, just add a splash of extra chicken broth and stir it in. Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the extra liquid. That should do the trick!

Can I freeze One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe?

Yep! This recipe freezes really well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat it as usual. Easy peasy!

Enjoy Your Delicious One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Okay, that’s it! I’m so excited for you to try this One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe! Seriously, I think you’re gonna love it. When you do, please leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! And don’t forget to rate the recipe! Sharing is caring, so snap a pic and tag me on social media, too! Thanks for reading, and happy cooking!

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One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice Recipe

Flawless One Pot Shawarma Chicken & Rice Recipe in 30 Minutes

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  • Author: Rachel Evans
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One Pot
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Easy and flavorful one-pot chicken shawarma and rice recipe. Great for a quick weeknight meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp shawarma spice blend
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken with the shawarma spice blend.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
  4. Add the rice to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  6. Return the chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot.

Notes

  • You can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs, but chicken thighs will be more flavorful.
  • Adjust the amount of shawarma spice blend to your liking.
  • For a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of chicken broth.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Hi, I’m Rachel!

Recipe creator, food enthusiast, and busy mom on a mission to simplify dinner without sacrificing flavor. I share tried-and-true recipes that are easy to follow, budget-friendly, and always satisfying. Let’s make dinnertime the best part of your day!

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