As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of spices wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Today, I’m thrilled to share my One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice recipe—a dish that marries juicy, seasoned chicken with fragrant basmati rice, all in one easy-to-clean pot. Not only does this recipe bring a delightful flavor profile that’s both vibrant and comforting, but it also makes weeknight dinners a breeze. With minimal prep and little cleanup, you can create a satisfying meal that your whole family will love. Curious how such a flavorful dish can come together with just a few simple steps? Let’s dive in!

Why is One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice amazing?

Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe is a breeze, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave homemade comfort food without the hassle of multiple pots to wash.

Bursting with Flavor: Rich spices and tender chicken meld beautifully with aromatic basmati rice, creating a symphony of taste that elevates your dinner experience.

Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to swap in chickpeas or your favorite veggies for a personal touch. It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your creativity!

Time-Saving Wonder: With everything cooked in just one pot, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the deliciousness.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Serve it alongside a refreshing salad or tzatziki sauce for a well-rounded meal.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Ingredients

For the Chicken:
• Olive Oil – Base fat for sautéing and enhancing flavor. Substitution: Can use vegetable oil if preferred.
• Chicken Thighs – Tender cuts that hold flavor well during cooking. Substitution: Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out if overcooked.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning, elevating the dish’s overall taste.
• Pepper – Provides a slight bite to balance the spices.

For the Spices:
• Ground Cumin – Adds warm, nutty notes, essential to the shawarma flavor profile.
• Ground Coriander – Provides citrusy brightness that balances the spices.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a hint of sweetness and smoky flavor to the dish.
• Ground Turmeric – Imparts a golden color and subtle warmth.
• Ground Cinnamon – Offers a sweet-spicy element, enhancing the overall taste.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adjusts heat level according to taste preference.

For the Base:
• Large Onion, chopped – Forms a sweet, aromatic base when sautéed.
• Garlic, minced – Brings pungent aroma and enhances savory characteristics.

For the Rice:
• Basmati Rice – Light and fluffy rice that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Chicken Broth – Cooking liquid that infuses rice with chicken flavor.

For Garnish:
• Parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh flavor and vibrant color on top.
• Lemon Wedges – Brings brightness and acidity to balance richness.

This One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice recipe is your ticket to a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot Shawarma Chicken And Rice

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will typically take about 2 minutes. Ensure the oil is hot enough to sear the chicken, as this will help develop a flavorful crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 teaspoons each of ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper along with salt and pepper to taste. Coat the chicken thighs evenly in this spice mixture, ensuring every piece is generously seasoned for maximum flavor in your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pot, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked through, turning them halfway. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a nice golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This process builds the aromatic base for your dish, contributing essential flavors to the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice.

Step 5: Toast the Rice
Stir in 1.5 cups of rinsed basmati rice with the sautéed onions and garlic for about 1-2 minutes. This technique enhances the rice’s flavor, allowing it to absorb the spices and chicken broth later. Keep stirring gently to ensure the rice is well-coated in the oil and spices.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared chicken to the pot and gently mix it with the rice and aromatics. This step allows the flavors to mingle beautifully. It’s essential that everything is well combined to ensure each bite of your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is flavorful and satisfying.

Step 7: Add the Chicken Broth
Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, stirring to incorporate all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which should take around 5 minutes. You’ll see bubbles forming on the surface, indicating that it’s time to proceed but remember, don’t cover the pot just yet!

Step 8: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is fluffy and the liquid is completely absorbed—no stirring is necessary during this simmering phase.

Step 9: Rest the Dish
After cooking, remove the pot from heat but keep it covered for another 10 minutes. This resting period helps the rice firm up and makes it easier to fluff later while allowing the flavors to meld perfectly in your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice.

Step 10: Fluff and Serve
Using a fork, gently fluff the rice to separate the grains and incorporate the chicken. Garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. This warming meal is now ready to be cherished by your family!

Expert Tips for One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Flavor Boost: Ensure chicken thighs are well-coated with the spice mix for maximum flavor. Don’t skimp on seasoning, as it highlights the dish’s heartiness.
Avoid Mushy Rice: Do not stir the rice once covered during the simmering phase. This helps achieve fluffy grains and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Adjusting the Heat: Modify the cayenne pepper amount according to your taste preference. Start with less if you’re unsure; you can always add more later!
Right Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked perfectly without drying out.
Resting Time: Allow the dish to sit covered after cooking. This resting period helps the rice firm up, enhancing the overall texture of your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own—there are so many delicious possibilities!

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas or another plant-based protein. This keeps the dish hearty while making it vegetarian-friendly.
Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach during the sauté step for a colorful and nutritious boost.
Rice Substitutes: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist that still pairs beautifully with the spices.
Spice it Up: Add extra cayenne or toss in diced jalapeños if you love a kick of heat. This simple adjustment can add a punch to your meal!
Coconut Cream: For a creamy variation, add a splash of coconut cream in the chicken broth for a luscious, tropical touch.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or mint into the dish just before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the spices.
Extra Depth: Stir in a spoonful of tahini or a drizzle of sesame oil for an added layer of richness—perfectly complements the shawarma spices.
Pine Nuts: Finish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch that gives texture and an extra nutty flavor. These little gems can transform your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice into a gourmet experience!

These variations allow you to enjoy new tastes while maintaining the comforting essence of the original dish. And if you’re in the mood for more exciting flavors, check out my Honey BBQ Chicken or Ground Chicken Skillet for more weeknight dinner inspiration!

Storage Tips for One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This will help preserve the flavors and keep the chicken juicy for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent sticking. You may need to add a little chicken broth to keep the rice fluffy and flavorful.

Your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice can easily become a go-to meal, even on busy nights!

What to Serve with One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

A delightful meal is just a few sides away from completing your savory journey!

Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy dip adds a refreshing tang, perfectly complementing the spiced chicken and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Crisp Salad: A fresh cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette provides a light and crunchy contrast, balancing the warm spices of the dish.
Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for scooping, making each bite an experience filled with flavor and texture.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots and bell peppers bring vibrant color and sweetness, enhancing the hearty meal without overpowering its essence.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled onions or radishes offers a zesty crunch, cutting through the richness of the chicken and rice combination.
Mint Tea: This aromatic beverage helps cleanse the palate and rounds out the meal, making it a wonderful end to your culinary adventure.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken thighs with the spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, you can chop the onions and mince the garlic a day ahead to streamline your prep. To maintain that fresh taste when cooking, simply store your prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy your meal, assemble everything and cook as instructed; you’ll have the same vibrant flavors and tender textures with minimal effort!

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor retention during cooking. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be cautious—overcooking can lead to dryness, so monitor the cooking time closely.

How should I store leftovers?
For best results, store your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze this dish?
Indeed! You can freeze your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice for up to 2 months. To do this, place it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on low heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

What should I do if the rice turns out mushy?
If the rice is mushy, it’s likely due to stirring during the simmering phase. To remedy this next time, stick to the instruction of not stirring once you cover it. For a better result, ensure the right liquid ratio—following the amounts specified can make all the difference.

Can I adjust the spices for dietary considerations?
Very! If you have spice sensitivities, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. For a milder flavor, strive to keep the spices balanced. Always adjust according to your taste preference, and feel free to add more towards the end of cooking if desired.

Are there any alternatives for the rice?
Absolutely! If you’d like to try a different grain, quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives that work well. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure they cook thoroughly without becoming mushy.

These FAQs should help you further enjoy your culinary journey with One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice!