What is shawarma seasoning made of?

Shawarma seasoning is a blend of warm, earthy spices typically used in Middle Eastern cooking. The basic mix includes cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for heat. You can buy it pre-mixed, or easily make your own. Adding this blend to one pot shawarma chicken and rice brings that signature bold, smoky flavor with hardly any effort.

Can you use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this dish?

Yes, absolutely. Many people prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs in one pot shawarma chicken and rice because they stay juicier and more tender. Just adjust the cook time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes. Whether you use breast or thigh, the spices will shine.

How do you keep the rice from sticking in one pot meals?

The key is adding enough liquid and simmering gently. Use a pot or pan with a tight-fitting lid, and once you add the broth, don’t crank up the heat — low and slow wins here. Let the rice steam covered, and give it a rest for a few minutes after cooking. This method works great not only for one pot shawarma chicken and rice , but also for other reader favorites like this bright One Pot Chicken and Rice with Caramelized Lemon — a dish where texture is just as important as flavor.

Is one pot shawarma chicken and rice freezer-friendly?

It can be! Cooked one pot shawarma chicken and rice freezes well in single portions. Let it cool completely first, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. While fresh is best, having a batch in the freezer means you’ll always have a quick solo meal ready to go.

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice | Amazing 30-Minute Solo Dinner

Name: One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Description

One Pot Shawarma Chicken and Rice — a bold, cozy solo dinner that cooks in one pan with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

1 small boneless, skinless chicken breast

1/2 cup long grain rice (basmati)

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp shawarma seasoning

1 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: herbs, lemon

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a small pot or skillet with lid.

2. Cook chopped onion until softened, about 3 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and shawarma seasoning, bloom for 30 seconds.

4. Add chicken breast and sear lightly on both sides.

5. Stir in rice to coat in spices.

6. Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper.

7. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 15 minutes.

8. Let rest 5 minutes off heat. Fluff rice, garnish, serve.

Notes

Use thighs instead of breast for juicier meat.
Frozen peas or spinach make great add-ins.
To freeze, cool completely and pack in single portions.
Reheat with a splash of broth to keep rice moist.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: one pot shawarma chicken and rice, solo dinner, meals for one