Shawarma Rice & One Pot

The vibrant flavours of a bustling Middle Eastern market, distilled into a single, satisfying dish. Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe brings the iconic taste of shawarma those tantalizingly spiced, thinly sliced meats and marries it with fragrant rice, all cooked together in one pot for ultimate ease and flavour infusion. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a culinary journey that’s both simple to embark on and deeply rewarding in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ?

• Unbelievably Easy Cleanup: The sheer joy of a one-pot meal cannot be overstated. Minimal dishes mean more time enjoying your delicious Shawarma Rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious, but flavour cannot be compromised.
• Flavour Fireworks: This recipe is an explosion of taste. The aromatic shawarma spices permeate every grain of rice and infuse the chicken, creating a symphony of warm, savory, and slightly tangy notes that dance on your palate.
• Customizable to Your Taste: While the core recipe is fantastic as is, Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Adjust the spice level, add your favourite vegetables, or switch up the protein to create a dish that perfectly suits your preferences.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This is a complete meal in one pot, offering a satisfying combination of protein, carbohydrates, and flavour. It’s substantial enough to please even the heartiest appetites and leaves you feeling comfortably full and content.
• Impressive for Guests, Simple for You: Shawarma Rice looks and tastes like a dish you’ve slaved over, yet it’s remarkably simple to prepare. It’s a fantastic way to impress dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Shawarma Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Chicken thighs are chosen for their superior flavour and moisture retention, ensuring tender and juicy shawarma even in a one-pot setting.
• ¼ cup olive oil, acts as a flavour carrier and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken, while also contributing to browning during cooking.
• ¼ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed. Lemon juice provides acidity that tenderizes the chicken and brightens the overall flavour profile, cutting through the richness of the spices.
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt, adds a creamy tanginess to the marinade and further tenderizes the chicken, promoting a more succulent texture.
• 2 tbsp shawarma spice blend. A pre-made blend simplifies the process and delivers authentic shawarma flavour. Look for blends containing cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic is a foundational aromatic in shawarma, lending its pungent and savory notes to the marinade and the final dish.
• 1 tsp ground cumin, enhances the earthy and warm notes of the shawarma spice blend, adding depth and complexity.
• 1 tsp paprika, contributes a mild smoky flavour and vibrant red colour to the marinade and the chicken.
• ½ tsp turmeric powder, provides a warm, earthy flavour and a characteristic golden hue to the shawarma, along with subtle peppery notes.
• ½ tsp salt, essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavours of all other ingredients in the marinade and the dish.
• ¼ tsp black pepper, adds a touch of subtle spice and balances the overall flavour profile.

For the Shawarma Rice & One Pot

• 1 tbsp olive oil, used to sauté the aromatics and begin building flavour in the pot before adding the marinated chicken and rice.
• 1 large onion, chopped. Onions form the aromatic base of the rice, contributing sweetness and savory depth as they sauté.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic further enhances the aromatic foundation, complementing the shawarma spices and adding pungent notes.
• 1 cup basmati rice, long-grain basmati rice is preferred for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked, absorbing the shawarma flavours beautifully.
• 2 cups chicken broth, low-sodium. Chicken broth provides the liquid for cooking the rice and infuses it with rich savory flavour, complementing the shawarma spices.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained. Diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity, sweetness, and moisture to the rice, creating a saucier and more flavourful dish.
• ½ cup frozen peas, adds a pop of sweetness, colour, and a touch of freshness to the rice, balancing the richness of the shawarma spices.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish. Fresh parsley provides a vibrant green garnish and a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the warm spices and rich flavours of the dish.
• Lemon wedges, for serving. Lemon wedges offer a final burst of acidity and brightness, allowing diners to customize the tanginess of their Shawarma Rice.

How to Make Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe ?

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Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil (for marinade), lemon juice, yogurt, shawarma spice blend, minced garlic (for marinade), cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavour. Longer marinating times intensify the shawarma flavour.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil (for one pot) in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add minced garlic (for one pot) to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavour and texture to the final dish.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the basmati rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes (undrained) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to ensure even cooking of the rice.

Step 5: Stir in Peas and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the frozen peas. Cover again and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the peas to thaw and warm through.

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe hot, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tips for Variations :

Vegetarian Shawarma Rice

Transform this dish into a vegetarian delight by substituting the chicken with canned chickpeas or firm tofu, cubed. Toss chickpeas or tofu with the shawarma marinade and roast them in the oven until slightly crispy before adding them to the rice pot in step 4.

Spice Level Adjustment

Control the heat by adjusting the amount of shawarma spice blend or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice. For a milder flavour, use a milder shawarma blend or reduce the quantity. You can also serve with a side of plain yogurt or tahini sauce to cool down the palate.

Vegetable Medley

Boost the vegetable content by adding other vegetables to the rice pot. Consider incorporating chopped bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or eggplant along with the onions and garlic. Sauté the vegetables along with the onions in step 2 for added flavour and texture.

Grain Variety

Experiment with different grains instead of basmati rice. Brown rice will add a nuttier flavour and chewier texture, while quinoa offers a protein-rich and gluten-free alternative. Cooking times may need to be adjusted based on the grain used; follow package instructions for liquid ratios and cooking times.

Herby Infusion

Enhance the aromatic complexity by adding fresh herbs to the rice during cooking. Stir in chopped fresh dill, mint, or cilantro along with the rice in step 4 for a more vibrant and herbaceous flavour. You can also garnish with a combination of fresh herbs for a visually appealing and flavourful finish.

Serving Suggestions :

Classic Shawarma Bowl

Serve Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe as the base of a flavorful shawarma bowl. Top it with a dollop of hummus, a drizzle of tahini sauce, chopped cucumber and tomatoes, and pickled turnips for a complete and satisfying meal.

Pita Pocket Stuffed

Warm pita pockets and stuff them with Shawarma Rice, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a generous spoonful of garlic sauce or tzatziki. This makes for a portable and delicious lunch or light dinner, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.

Salad Sensation

Serve Shawarma Rice chilled or at room temperature as a base for a vibrant salad. Toss it with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, bell peppers, olives, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful salad.

Side Dish Star

Serve Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe as a flavourful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Its aromatic and savory profile complements a variety of main courses, adding a Middle Eastern flair to any meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with Shawarma Rice. Bake the stuffed peppers until tender and slightly caramelized for a fun and flavourful twist on stuffed peppers. Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dollop of yogurt for a complete and visually appealing dish.

FAQ :

Can I use pre-cooked rice to speed up the cooking process?

While using pre-cooked rice will significantly reduce cooking time, it is not recommended for this one-pot recipe. The rice is intended to cook in the broth and tomato mixture to absorb all the shawarma flavours. Pre-cooked rice will not absorb flavours as effectively and may result in a less cohesive dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To increase the spice level, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or include a finely chopped red chili pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce or chili garlic sauce for those who prefer extra heat.

What is the best way to reheat leftover Shawarma Rice?

Leftover Shawarma Rice can be reheated in the microwave or in a skillet. For microwave reheating, sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice to prevent it from drying out and microwave in short intervals until heated through. For skillet reheating, add a tablespoon of olive oil or water to the skillet and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Can I add other vegetables besides peas?

Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, corn, and broccoli florets are all excellent additions. Add heartier vegetables like carrots and bell peppers when sautéing the onions, and add quicker-cooking vegetables like corn and broccoli along with the peas towards the end of cooking.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their superior flavour and moisture, you can use chicken breast if preferred. Chicken breast tends to be leaner and can dry out more easily, so be sure not to overcook it. Reduce the simmering time slightly and ensure there is enough liquid in the pot to keep the chicken moist.

Shawarma Rice & One Pot Recipe is a testament to the fact that flavourful, satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This one-pot wonder brings the vibrant tastes of shawarma to your table in a simple and approachable way. From the aromatic spices to the fluffy rice and tender chicken, every element of this dish works in harmony to create a truly delightful culinary experience. Embrace the ease and flavour of Shawarma Rice and transform your weeknight dinners into a Middle Eastern feast.

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