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Shawarma Chicken and Rice

Shawarma Chicken and Rice

This Shawarma Chicken and Rice is a flavorful one-pan meal made with spiced chicken baked directly over seasoned rice. Inspired by Middle Eastern shawarma flavors, this easy oven baked chicken and rice recipe is perfect for lazy dinners, cozy comfort food recipes, and simple recipes for dinner with minimal cleanup.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • cups long-grain rice uncooked
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
  3. Season Chicken
  4. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  5. Prepare Rice Base
  6. Spread uncooked rice in the baking dish. Add chopped onion and garlic, then pour in chicken broth and stir gently.
  7. Assemble Dish
  8. Arrange seasoned chicken on top of the rice mixture, pressing slightly so the chicken sits partially in the liquid.
  9. Bake Covered
  10. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  11. Finish Baking
  12. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10 minutes, until chicken is golden and rice is tender.
  13. Rest & Serve
  14. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but breasts work well too.
  • For a creamy chicken and rice version, stir in ¼ cup cream or yogurt after baking.
  • Add carrots or bell peppers for a one-pan chicken and vegetables meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat covered to prevent the rice from drying out.