One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s packed with bold Middle Eastern flavors but doesn’t require a mountain of pots and pans, then One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish masterfully combines tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with aromatic spices and perfectly cooked rice, all in a single pan, saving you time without skimping on taste or texture. With each bite, you’ll experience the warm, smoky notes of cumin, paprika, and turmeric, balanced by the freshness of lemon and herbs—truly a comforting and vibrant dish everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the spices that envelop the chicken to the fresh herbs that brighten everything up, every component has its part to play.

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs: Perfectly sized and tender, these give the dish its hearty protein base and rich texture.
• Ground cumin (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, earthy flavor that is essential in shawarma seasoning.
• Ground coriander (2 teaspoons): Brings a subtle citrusy note to balance the spices.
• Paprika (2 teaspoons) and smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Together they offer a smoky and mildly sweet depth that’s utterly mouthwatering.
• Salt (¾ teaspoon) and black pepper (½ teaspoon): Elevate and harmonize all the flavors seamlessly.
• Turmeric (½ teaspoon): Provides a lovely golden hue and slight earthiness.
• Ground cardamom (½ teaspoon): Imparts a distinctive warm and slightly floral aroma.
• Chilli flakes (¼ teaspoon): Just the right hint of heat; adjust to taste for your spice preference.
• Lemon juice (1.5 tablespoons): Adds a bright, tangy punch that tenderizes the chicken and lifts the dish.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Necessary for searing and to keep ingredients luscious.
• 1 medium onion, finely sliced: Offers sweetness and texture when cooked alongside the chicken.
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed: Delivers an unmistakable savory warmth.
• Uncooked long grain rice (180g/1 cup): Acts as the starchy, fluffy bed soaking up all those seductive flavors.
• Chicken stock (2 cups/480ml), hot: Essential for cooking the rice and infusing it with rich taste.
• Fresh chopped parsley (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finishing touch.
• Dried dill (½ teaspoon): Offers a subtle, slightly tangy contrast to the earthier spices.

How to Make One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken thigh in half horizontally—this helps them cook more evenly and quickly. Toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, turmeric, cardamom, chili flakes, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix thoroughly so that every morsel is beautifully coated in a fragrant spice blend that promises layers of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat—this step is crucial for building the characteristic golden, slightly crispy exterior on the chicken. Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side without rushing; patience here means a beautifully caramelized crust. When flipping the chicken, scatter the thinly sliced onions and crushed garlic around and under the chicken to sweat and mellow, infusing the pan with savory goodness.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Once your chicken is perfectly golden, sprinkle in the uncooked long grain rice. Stir for about a minute; you’ll notice the grains start turning translucent, an indication that they are ready to soak up all the chicken stock. Pour the hot chicken stock gently over the mixture, and give everything a gentle stir to distribute ingredients without stirring too much and breaking the rice grains.

Step 4: Simmer and Steam

Allow the pan to bubble gently over medium heat, uncovered, until the chicken stock absorbs almost entirely into the rice—resist the urge to stir, as this ensures fluffy rice and keeps the textures distinct. Once you see the stock is absorbed, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, turn off the heat, and let everything steam in its own warmth for 12 minutes. This final step is where the magic happens, letting the flavors blend perfectly and the rice finish cooking to tender perfection.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

After steaming, carefully lift the lid to release the aroma that will instantly transport you to a bustling Middle Eastern kitchen. Taste and season with a little more salt and black pepper if needed. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and dried dill for a burst of freshness and herbal brightness that balance the rich, spiced base.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

This One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is now ready to be enjoyed as is or with your favorite accompaniments—warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

How to Serve One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Adding a garnish is a wonderful way to elevate your presentation and add fresh texture. Try a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. A dollop of cool yogurt or some crisp cucumber slices can also beautifully complement the spiced chicken and rice, offering contrast and coolness.

Side Dishes

While this dish is quite filling on its own, it pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. A simple fattoush salad with crisp greens, radishes, and a lemony vinaigrette can highlight the spices. Roasted vegetables or a warm pita bread alongside can round out the meal and soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining or just a bit of fun, serve the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice layered in a beautiful shallow dish or directly in individual bowls topped with colorful garnishes. You can also turn this dish into a festive spread by adding bowls of hummus, pickled turnips, and olives for a truly authentic Middle Eastern feast vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week. Consume within 3 to 4 days for best taste and freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, but be sure to portion it out before freezing to avoid thawing more than you need. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When freezing, consider leaving out fresh herbs, which can be added after reheating for that fresh flavor punch.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of water or stock to keep the rice moist. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. Add fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice after reheating to brighten the flavors back to life.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, you can use breasts; just be mindful they may cook faster and can become dry if overcooked. Slice breasts thinly and watch the cooking time closely.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, or chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything cooks through and remains flavorful.

How spicy is One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?

The heat level is moderate, thanks to a small amount of chili flakes, but it’s easily adjustable. Add more chili flakes if you like it fiery, or reduce them for a milder dish.

What rice should I use?

Long grain rice works best because it stays fluffy and separate when cooked. Avoid short grain or sticky rice varieties since they can turn mushy in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a hassle-free recipe bursting with vibrant spices and cozy flavors, One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice has got you covered. It’s a perfect dish for weeknights or casual get-togethers, saving you time on cleanup while delivering a meal that tastes like you spent hours cooking. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation!

Print