Description
Irresistibly Flavorful Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad
Ingredients
Scale
- 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.)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare Vegetables: Dice the cucumber, chop the tomatoes, slice the red onion, and finely chop the fresh parsley or cilantro.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Crispy Rice, Salad, Middle Eastern