Name: Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice: 5 Flavorful Secrets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken (thighs or breasts) (Tofu can be used for a vegetarian version.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a substitute.); 2 tsp Cumin (Essential for the iconic shawarma taste.); 1 tsp Paprika (Enhances color and flavor.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Adjust based on preference.); 0.5 tsp Turmeric (Provides authentic taste.); to taste Salt & Pepper (Adjust according to preference.); 2 cups Cooked Rice (Use leftover rice for convenience.); 1 Cucumber (diced) (Substitute with bell peppers if desired.); 2 Tomatoes (chopped) (Cherry tomatoes work well.); 0.5 Red Onion (sliced) (Soak in cold water to mellow flavor.); Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (Can substitute with other herbs.); 0.25 cup Tahini (Sunflower seed paste can be used if allergic to sesame.); from 1 lemon Lemon Juice (Fresh juice is recommended.); 1 Garlic Clove (minced) (Enhances dressing flavor.); Water (Adjust to desired dressing consistency.)

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Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice is an irresistible dish that combines Middle Eastern flavors with a satisfying crunch. This delightful recipe features seasoned chicken served over crispy rice, creating a perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option, this dish is sure to impress. If you’re wondering what makes it so special, let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice

This Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.
Full of flavor, thanks to the vibrant spices commonly used in shawarma.
Customizable with your choice of vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
Offers a unique twist on traditional rice bowls with its crunchy texture.
It’s gluten-free and can be made vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu.

With its combination of Crispy Rice with Shawarma Chicken and fresh veggies, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice

Gather these items:

1 lb Chicken (thighs or breasts) (Tofu can be used for a vegetarian version.)
2 tbsp Olive Oil (Avocado oil is a substitute.)
2 tsp Cumin (Essential for the iconic shawarma taste.)
1 tsp Paprika (Enhances color and flavor.)
1 tsp Garlic Powder (Adjust based on preference.)
0.5 tsp Turmeric (Provides authentic taste.)
to taste Salt & Pepper (Adjust according to preference.)
2 cups Cooked Rice (Use leftover rice for convenience.)
1 Cucumber (diced) (Substitute with bell peppers if desired.)
2 Tomatoes (chopped) (Cherry tomatoes work well.)
0.5 Red Onion (sliced) (Soak in cold water to mellow flavor.)
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (Can substitute with other herbs.)
0.25 cup Tahini (Sunflower seed paste can be used if allergic to sesame.)
from 1 lemon Lemon Juice (Fresh juice is recommended.)
1 Garlic Clove (minced) (Enhances dressing flavor.)
Water (Adjust to desired dressing consistency.)

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat, and cook the marinated chicken until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Crisp Rice: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Cook the cooled rice until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables: Dice the cucumber, chop the tomatoes, slice the red onion, and finely chop the fresh parsley or cilantro.
Step 5: Make Dressing: Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Gradually add water until desired consistency is reached. Chill for about 15 minutes.
Step 6: Assemble Salad: In a serving bowl, layer the crispy rice as the base. Top with sliced chicken, vegetables, and fresh herbs. Drizzle with tahini dressing.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice

Keep these in mind:

Let the chicken marinate longer for enhanced flavor.
Use leftover rice for a quicker prep time.
Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
For extra crunch, consider frying the rice in a bit more oil.
Keep the tahini dressing in the fridge for up to a week.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve it as a Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl with a side of hummus and pita.
Top with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice

To store, keep the components separate in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in a skillet until heated through, then assemble as desired. This is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice?

The secret lies in the marination of the chicken. Allowing the spices to infuse for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the rice a day ahead. Just assemble the salad before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice?

To avoid soggy rice, ensure it’s cooled completely before crisping. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can prevent proper browning.

Variations of Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add different vegetables based on the season, like bell peppers or corn.
Use brown rice instead of white for a healthier option.
Try different spices, like sumac or za’atar, for a unique twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Ginger Lime Pork for a flavorful twist!

Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice: 5 Flavorful Secrets - Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice - additional detail

If you’re interested in learning more about the spices used in this dish, you can visit Healthline’s guide on spices and herbs for additional information.