Savory Shawarma Chicken and Rice: Your Easy One-Pot Dinner

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 21 December 2025

As the sun sets and the aroma of spices fills my kitchen, I find myself transported to the vibrant streets where shawarma stands beckon with their mouthwatering smells. This One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice is my go-to recipe for those evenings when I crave a satisfying meal without the fuss. With tender chicken thighs marinated in a delightful mix of cumin, coriander, and paprika, all nestled atop fluffy basmati rice, this dish comes together effortlessly in just one pot—perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. Not only is it simple enough for beginners to master, but it also packs a flavor punch that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Are you ready to bring the taste of homemade shawarma to your table?

Why Is One Pot Cooking So Appealing?

Simplicity at its Core: With just one pot, you can effortlessly whip up an entire meal without overwhelming mess!

Flavor Explosion: The aromatic blend of spices creates an unforgettable taste experience that will keep your taste buds dancing.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is streamlined for those who want a satisfying dinner without long prep times.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to customize it! Try swapping chicken for chickpeas or pairing it with a side of fresh cucumber salad for added variety.

Elevate your culinary repertoire with this One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice that mimics takeout without stepping out of your kitchen!

Shawarma Chicken and Rice Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need!

For the Chicken

Olive Oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking; can substitute with any neutral oil if preferred.
Chicken Thighs – Provides juiciness and flavor; chicken breasts can be substituted but watch the cooking time to prevent dryness.
Ground Cumin – Essential for the shawarma seasoning, adding warm, earthy flavor.
Ground Coriander – Delivers a bright, citrusy note that balances the spices.
Smoked Paprika – Enhances the dish with mild sweetness and a hint of smokiness.
Ground Turmeric – Offers beautiful color along with a mild, peppery flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – Contributes warmth and depth to the spice blend.
Cayenne Pepper – Provides adjustable heat for those who like it spicy; use less for a milder flavor or omit altogether.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors in the dish.

For the Aromatics and Rice

Onion – Forms the aromatic base when sautéed for delicious depth.
Garlic – Adds pungent flavor and a wonderful aroma during cooking.
Basmati Rice – Light and fluffy, perfect for absorbing spices without becoming mushy.
Chicken Broth – Infuses the rice with savory flavor; can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

For the Finish

Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor for garnish.
Lemon Wedges – Brightens and lifts the flavors when served, enhancing the shawarma chicken and rice.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shawarma Chicken And Rice

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium-high until shimmering. This should take about 2 minutes. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken, preventing it from sticking while ensuring a beautiful golden-brown crust on your shawarma chicken.

Step 2: Mix the Spices
While the oil heats, combine 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika, along with ½ teaspoon of turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix in salt and pepper to taste. Coat your chicken thighs in this vibrant spice mixture to ensure each piece is evenly seasoned before cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Carefully add the spiced chicken thighs to the hot pot, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown on all sides. Use tongs to turn the chicken, ensuring an even sear. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside, allowing the residual flavor to linger.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in a diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring constantly. This step builds the aromatic base for your shawarma chicken and rice, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish as it cooks.

Step 5: Add the Rice
Next, stir in 1 cup of rinsed basmati rice into the pot, ensuring it’s well-coated with the oil and onion-garlic mixture. Sauté the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the surrounding flavors. This step is crucial for creating fluffy, spice-infused rice that pairs perfectly with the shawarma chicken.

Step 6: Return Chicken to Pot
Once the rice is coated, return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them amidst the rice. Gently mix them together to combine flavors. This integration enhances the dish, as the rice will soak up all the savory juices from the chicken during cooking.

Step 7: Add Broth and Boil
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring everything to distribute the liquid evenly. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil, about 5-7 minutes. This boiling stage is essential, as it kicks off the cooking process, ensuring that the basmati rice cooks to perfection alongside the shawarma chicken.

Step 8: Cover and Simmer
Once boiling, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender. Take care not to lift the lid too often, as this releases steam needed for cooking.

Step 9: Let it Rest
After cooking, remove the pot from heat but let it sit covered for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to continue steaming and firms up the texture, ensuring each grain is fluffy. It also gives time for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 10: Fluff and Garnish
Finally, use a fork to gently fluff the rice and chicken, breaking up any clumps. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch and serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing everyone to brighten their shawarma chicken and rice with a squeeze of citrus before devouring.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken thighs with the spice mixture and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a more delicious outcome. Additionally, you can chop the onions and garlic a day ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the pot, sauté the prepared aromatics, and follow the remaining steps as usual. This helps maintain the dish’s quality while giving you a stress-free, flavorful dinner that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh.

Storage Tips for Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze servings in airtight containers for up to 2 months. The flavors deepen as they chill, making your shawarma chicken and rice even more delicious upon reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to ensure the rice stays moist and fluffy.
Quality Check: Always check for any changes in scent or texture before consuming leftovers to ensure your shawarma chicken and rice is still at its best.

Shawarma Chicken And Rice Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and adapt it to your tastes—it’s a delicious canvas waiting for your culinary creativity!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken thighs for chickpeas and enjoy a hearty, protein-rich vegetarian version. Each bite remains flavorful and satisfying.
Broth Substitution: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian meal without sacrificing flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the spices!
Add Freshness: Serve with a dollop of tzatziki or a side salad of cucumber and tomatoes. The coolness of the salad will enhance the warm shawarma chicken.
Spice Adjustments: Want more heat? Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce! For milder heat, simply reduce the cayenne pepper in the dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint in addition to parsley. They bring a bright burst of flavor that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking.
Coconut Cream Twist: For added creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of coconut cream before serving. It adds a subtle richness that complements the spices beautifully.
Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a garnish before serving. They add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
Rice Varieties: Try using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a health twist. Each option provides different textures and nutrition while maintaining the dish’s overall essence.

Explore these variations to make your One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice uniquely yours! And if you ever want to mix things up, you might also want to check out my delicious Buffalo Chicken Bombs or try the Chicken Parm Sandwich for an exciting flavor adventure.

Helpful Tricks for Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Cook Chicken Right: Make sure not to overcook the chicken thighs. Keep an eye on the cooking time to retain their juiciness and tenderness.
Rinse Your Rice: Rinsing basmati rice helps remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy and perfectly cooked rice, which beautifully absorbs the shawarma flavors.
Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Start with a little, as you can always add more later if you prefer a spicier shawarma chicken and rice.
Rest for Fluffiness: After cooking, allow the dish to rest covered for 10 minutes. This helps the rice firm up and enhances the overall texture.
Garnish Brightly: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. A squeeze of lemon really elevates the flavors and brings everything together beautifully.

What to Serve with One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice

As the enticing aroma wafts through your home, it’s time to think about what perfect sides can further enhance this one-pot delight.

Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with tangy dressing offer a refreshing crunch that complements the savory spices beautifully.
Garlic Yogurt Dip: Creamy and tangy, this dip not only balances the richness of the dish but adds a soothing layer of flavor with every bite.
Toasted Pita Bread: Warm, crispy pita is perfect for scooping up the shawarma chicken and rice, providing a satisfying textural contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables develop sweet, caramelized edges when roasted, making them a colorful and nutritious companion.
Hummus: Velvety hummus pairs well, adding a nutty richness that complements the spices of the dish wonderfully.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A bright, bubbly drink keeps things light and refreshing, enhancing the meal’s flavor profile with a splash of citrus.

Let your dinner table come alive with these delightful sides, creating a harmonious experience filled with warmth and joy!

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe chicken thighs?
When choosing chicken thighs, look for meat that is pink and slightly firm to the touch, with no discoloration or dark spots. A fresh chicken thigh should also have minimal visible bones and fat. If buying from a butcher, ask for them to be cut to your preference, ensuring they are all of uniform size for even cooking!

How should I store leftovers of One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist and fluffy.

Can I freeze the One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in airtight containers for up to 2 months. The flavors actually deepen as it freezes, but it’s best to cool the dish completely before freezing. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove with a splash of broth for moisture.

What if my rice turns out mushy?
If your rice becomes mushy, it may be because it was overcooked or too much liquid was added. To avoid this, always rinse basmati rice before cooking to remove extra starch and measure your liquid carefully based on the rice-to-liquid ratio. If that ever happens, try incorporating some fresh vegetables or grains to balance the texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?
Certainly! This recipe can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences. If you’re avoiding meat, substitute the chicken thighs with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, to make it gluten-free, ensure that the chicken broth used is gluten-free. Always check for any allergies related to the spices and ingredients, especially cayenne pepper for those sensitive to heat.

How can I enhance the flavor of my One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice?
For extra flavor depth, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving or mixing in some toasted nuts or dried fruits like raisins or apricots. These additions can introduce a delightful sweetness and texture contrast that takes your meal to the next level!