Introduction
Shawarma rice recipe brings together the deep Middle Eastern spices of shawarma with soft fragrant rice in one comforting plate. Each spoonful carries warm aromas bold seasoning and a satisfying balance of protein and grains. This dish feels rich yet familiar making it suitable for everyday meals as well as special gatherings.
Middle Eastern rice dishes are loved because they deliver flavor without complicated techniques. Shawarma rice is inspired by street style shawarma but adapted for home kitchens where everything cooks in harmony. The meat absorbs spices while the rice soaks up savory juices creating a unified and hearty meal.
This shawarma rice recipe is designed for home cooks who want restaurant style flavor using simple ingredients. The process is straightforward yet rewarding and the result feels comforting filling and deeply aromatic. It works perfectly for lunch dinner or meal prep for busy days.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a complete ingredient table with approximate calorie values. Calories may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 2 cups | 420 |
| Chicken breast or thighs | 500 grams | 550 |
| Yogurt | 1 cup | 150 |
| Onion | 1 large | 60 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | 20 |
| Ginger paste | 1 tbsp | 15 |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | 360 |
| Shawarma spice mix | 2 tbsp | 40 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Cumin powder | 1 tsp | 8 |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Turmeric | ½ tsp | 4 |
| Salt | to taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 8 |
| Chicken stock or water | 3 cups | 30 |
| Fresh parsley | for garnish | 5 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Wash the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak it in clean water for twenty minutes then drain and set aside.
- Cut the chicken into medium sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and add yogurt lemon juice shawarma spice mix paprika cumin coriander turmeric salt and black pepper.
- Mix everything well until the chicken is fully coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least thirty minutes for deeper flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy bottom pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and golden.
- Add garlic and ginger paste. Stir for one minute until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pot. Cook while stirring occasionally until the chicken changes color and releases aroma.
- Let the chicken cook for eight to ten minutes until lightly browned and the oil separates slightly.
- Add the soaked rice to the pot and gently mix so the grains are coated with spices and oil.
- Pour in chicken stock or water. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pot tightly and let the rice cook for fifteen minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest covered for ten minutes.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate grains without breaking them.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Use beef or lamb instead of chicken for a richer and deeper flavor profile
• Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for added color and texture
• Mix in raisins or toasted nuts for a subtle sweet contrast
• Increase paprika and black pepper for a spicier version
• Replace water with full chicken stock for extra depth
Nutritional Information
This nutritional breakdown is approximate per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 48 grams |
| Fat | 22 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Shawarma rice recipe pairs beautifully with fresh salads and cooling sauces. Serve it alongside garlic yogurt sauce cucumber salad or hummus for a complete Middle Eastern inspired meal. Warm flatbread also complements the dish well and helps scoop up flavorful rice.
For gatherings this dish works perfectly as a main centerpiece. Serve it in a large platter topped with extra herbs lemon wedges and a drizzle of yogurt sauce. It also reheats well making it suitable for lunch boxes and weekly meal prep.
Conclusion
Shawarma rice recipe offers comfort flavor and balance in one satisfying dish. The combination of tender spiced meat and fragrant rice creates a meal that feels hearty yet approachable. Each bite carries warmth and richness that makes it memorable.
Cooking this dish at home allows full control over spices and texture. Once prepared it becomes a reliable recipe that fits family dinners special occasions and busy schedules alike. With its bold taste and simple process shawarma rice easily earns a permanent place in your kitchen rotation.
