One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of shawarma spices and tender chicken, all cooked in one pot with fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Just imagine the comforting aroma filling your kitchen as this wholesome dish comes together effortlessly!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Air Fryer Paper Liners

Buy Now →

Vegetable Chopper

Buy Now →

Magic Bullet Blender

Buy Now →

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a Time Saver: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, saving you precious time.
Flavor Explosion: The shawarma spices infuse the chicken and rice, creating a deliciously aromatic meal.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, offering both convenience and taste.
Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice. Each component plays a significant role in building that delicious, savory flavor profile.

Chicken Thighs: Juicy and tender, they soak up the spices beautifully.
Shawarma Spice Blend: A mix of spices including cumin, paprika, and turmeric that gives the dish its distinctive flavor.
Rice: Long-grain rice works best, absorbing flavors while remaining fluffy.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the rice and chicken with added depth of flavor.
Onion: Sweet and aromatic, it forms the base of the dish’s flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful kick to the overall taste.
Bell Peppers: Adds a pop of color and a slight sweetness to the dish.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps in cooking the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! It’s designed to be easily adaptable based on what you have on hand or your dietary requirements.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables for a plant-based version.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Different Grains: Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a unique texture.
Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of yogurt before serving for a creamy contrast.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice for Easy Dinners

How to Make One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with the shawarma spice blend, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with those rich, aromatic flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant. This forms the flavorful base of your dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, browning on both sides. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely color to the dish.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Once the chicken is browned, stir in the rice and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

During the last few minutes of cooking, add diced bell peppers to the pot. This allows them to soften but still retain some crunch, adding texture to your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice.

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Marinate Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the shawarma spices for a few hours before cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions will elevate the dish’s flavor compared to dried alternatives.
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Let the chicken and rice simmer gently for the best texture and flavor.
Adjust Liquid as Needed: Depending on the rice variety, you may need to tweak the amount of broth.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the dish to your liking.

How to Serve One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Top your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice with a side of warm pita bread or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the dish on a large platter, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs, allowing everyone to help themselves!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion out the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice in freezer-safe containers and it can be kept for up to three months.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen meal, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pot with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but be cautious not to overcook it as it can become dry. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice and ensure that your shawarma spices do not contain any gluten ingredients.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix or toss in some diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or water in place of chicken broth, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love, give the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice a try. With its amazing flavors and effortless preparation, it might just become your new go-to dinner recipe!