For the Rice:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 cups basmati rice, rinsed
- 3 cups chicken broth or water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients and coat chicken thighs.
- Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in fridge).
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
- In the same pot, add 1 tbsp oil and sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in rice, coating it in the aromatic base.
- Pour in broth and season lightly with salt.
Step 4: Simmer Together
- Nestle chicken thighs on top of the rice.
- Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Let sit covered for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Rinse rice until water runs clear to prevent stickiness.
- Let the chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
Variations
- Add chopped carrots or peas before simmering
- Use chicken breast for a leaner option
- Top with a fried egg or pickled onions
Ingredient Substitutions
- Basmati rice → jasmine or long-grain rice
- Olive oil → avocado oil or ghee
- Chicken thighs → tofu or jackfruit for a plant-based option
Storage & Reheating
- Store in airtight container up to 4 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of water
- Freezes well for up to 2 months
What to Serve With It
- Cucumber yogurt sauce or tzatziki
- Warm pita bread
- Simple tomato-cucumber salad
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
No, raw rice cooks with the chicken to absorb all the flavors.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes — sear chicken first, then add everything to slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours.
Is this spicy?
Not too spicy — just warmly spiced. Add cayenne if desired.
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Conclusion
This one pot shawarma chicken and rice is your weeknight dinner hero — deeply flavorful, perfectly spiced, and all made in one pan. Say goodbye to boring chicken and hello to a taste of the Middle East that’s as easy as it is delicious.
