One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice

Name: One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup basmati rice; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, etc.)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the delightful taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with this One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice recipe. Juicy, spiced chicken thighs are perfectly cooked alongside fragrant rice, infused with warm spices like cumin and coriander. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite. Perfectly balanced and satisfying, it’s a complete meal that will impress the whole family.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T03:39:11.690Z

A Taste of the Middle East

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a culinary expedition to the heart of Middle Eastern flavor. This dish elevates simple ingredients into a delightful feast, filled with warmth and comfort. The rich, aromatic spices used in the marinade create a deep, savory profile that perfectly complements the tender chicken and fluffy rice. By cooking everything in one pot, you not only concentrate the flavors but also save on cleanup time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Each bite offers a burst of coordinated spices, including cumin and coriander, that highlight the essence of traditional shawarma. The marinated chicken thighs become juicy as they absorb the essence of the spices and broth, ensuring every bit is deliciously satisfying. With hints of paprika and turmeric, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family together around the table.

Easy One-Pot Cooking

One of the standout features of this dish is its simplicity in preparation. Combining the chicken, rice, and vegetables all in one pot streamlines the cooking process, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. This method also ensures that the rice is infused with the flavors from the chicken and spices, creating a harmonious dish that resonates with each bite.

The ease of this recipe makes it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Even if you’re new to cooking, following the steps will lead you to a flavorful end result. Everything from marinating the chicken to simmering the rice can be done with minimal effort, providing a delightful, home-cooked meal without the fuss.

Nutritional Benefits

Shawarma Chicken and Rice not only pleases the palate but also stands out as a nutritious option for family dinners. Chicken thighs, while often considered indulgent, are an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for maintaining energy levels and overall body function. When paired with basmati rice and mixed vegetables, you have a well-rounded meal that supports a balanced diet.

The incorporation of vegetables like peas and carrots adds not only color but also valuable vitamins and minerals. By choosing this one-pot dish, you're ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys a meal that is both delicious and nourishing. Plus, by preparing it at home, you avoid the often high sodium levels found in restaurant versions of this dish.

Ingredients

For the Shawarma Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

1 cup basmati rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, etc.)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs in the spice mixture and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

Combine and Cook

Return the chicken to the pot, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Enjoy your Meal!

Storage and Reheating

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. If you have extra portions, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. You can keep this dish in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for lunches throughout the week.

Reheating is straightforward; simply microwave portions until heated through or warm them up on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. The flavors tend to develop even further after a day in the fridge, making it a delicious option for those who appreciate leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

For an authentic Middle Eastern experience, serve your Shawarma Chicken and Rice with a side of pita bread and a fresh salad. A simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil complements the spices beautifully while adding a refreshing crunch.

You might also consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or even a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce for added creaminess. These small additions can elevate the dish and cater to varying taste preferences, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but the chicken breasts may dry out if overcooked. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.