One Pot Chicken Shawarma Rice

Introduction

Warm, fragrant, and simple to pull together, this one pot chicken shawarma rice turns weeknight dinner into something special. Tender thighs soak up a blend of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon for an aromatic bite that pairs perfectly with a bright yogurt sauce. If you enjoy fuss free meals that still feel restaurant level, this dish is for you — and it plays nicely alongside other comforting rice bowls like one pot cheesy southwest chicken rice. With just one pan to wash, you get incredible flavor and an easy cleanup.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe is a great weeknight winner because it balances speed with bold, layered flavor. Marinating the chicken for a short time builds deep aroma without extra effort, and cooking rice right in the pot means the grains absorb all those savory juices. The spices are warm but gentle, creating an inviting color and perfume that fills the kitchen. Texturally you get tender chicken tucked into fluffy, fragrant rice, and the yogurt sauce adds a cool contrast that brightens every bite. If you like one pot comfort meals, you will appreciate how this shawarma style rice feels both homey and a little exotic, similar in spirit to other quick one pot chicken recipes that keep dinner interesting.

Flavor and Texture

The spice mix here is the star of the show, with cumin and coriander giving earthiness while paprika and turmeric add toast and color. Cinnamon brings an unexpected warmth that rounds the profile and makes each mouthful intriguing. Garlic and onion create a savory base while the chicken broth helps the rice become perfectly tender and infused with flavor. The yogurt lemon sauce provides a silky, tangy foil to the spices, cooling the palate and tying everything together. Fresh herbs at the end give a pop of green and a fresh finish that lifts the whole dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 cups rice (long-grain or basmati)
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup yogurt (for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat and sauté the onions until soft.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the rice and chicken broth, bringing it to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
7. In a small bowl, mix yogurt and lemon juice to make the sauce.
8. Serve the rice topped with the yogurt sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.

Tips for Best Results

Use long grain or basmati rice for the lightest, fluffiest texture that will not clump. Toasting the spices briefly in the pot before adding the chicken can amplify their aroma. If your chicken pieces are large, cut them into uniform sizes so they brown evenly and finish cooking at the same time as the rice. Check the rice toward the end of cooking and add a splash more broth if it looks dry; altitude and rice age can change the exact liquid needed. Let the pot rest covered for five minutes off the heat before fluffing so the steam evens out the grains.

Storage and Make Ahead

This dish stores well in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator, making it excellent for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stove with a little splash of broth to revive the rice and keep the chicken juicy. The yogurt sauce is best kept separate and spooned over when serving to maintain its fresh tang. You can also marinate the chicken the night before to save time and deepen the flavor.

Final Thought

One pot chicken shawarma rice is a lovely balance of comfort and spice that feels special without fuss. It’s colorful, aromatic, and designed to be shared with minimal cleanup. Serve with a wedge of lemon and extra herbs for an easy, crowd pleasing meal.

Conclusion

For another take on shawarma style rice that highlights a creamy white sauce, check out this inspired version at Shawarma Rice with White Sauce (in one pot) – Hungry Paprikas.

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