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One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice

Tender chicken marinated with aromatic shawarma spices and fluffy basmati rice all cooked together in one pot for an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Middle Eastern
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless
  • 2 cups basmati rice rinsed
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons shawarma spice blend
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • mixing bowl
  • Fork for fluffing rice

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the shawarma spice blend, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
  5. Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, ensuring it's well coated and mixed with the chicken and spices.
  6. Carefully add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
  7. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
  8. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
  9. Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Use fresh spices for best flavor. Can substitute chicken breasts for thighs (reduce cooking time slightly). Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition. Let dish rest 5 minutes after cooking for best texture.
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