Go Back
+ servings
Shawarma Rice with White Sauce

Savor Shawarma Rice with White Sauce in One Pot Tonight

Experience a delightful journey through Middle Eastern flavors with Shawarma Rice and White Sauce, all in just one pot.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Can use chicken breast but be cautious not to overcook.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred for maximum flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Key for the shawarma seasoning profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Introduces sweetness and color.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon Adds warmth and complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper For subtle heat and depth of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for cooking the chicken.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Onions Chopped; base for the flavor profile.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric Provides color and earthy flavor.
  • 1.5 cups Basmati Rice Rinsed and drained.
  • 3 cups Water Cooking liquid to hydrate the rice.
For the White Sauce
  • 1 cup Full Fat Plain Yogurt Creates a creamy base.
  • 0.5 cup Mayonnaise Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavor in the white sauce.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Chili Powder Adds mild heat; adjust as preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Tahini Optional for extra creaminess.

Equipment

  • Large Deep Skillet or Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Marinate the chicken thighs with cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.
  2. Sear the marinated chicken thighs in a large, deep skillet with olive oil for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions with a pinch of salt for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, turmeric, and remaining spices, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Add rinsed basmati rice, stirring for 2-3 minutes to coat with flavors.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the pot, add water, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
  7. Prepare the white sauce by whisking together yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, chili powder, lemon juice, and tahini.
  8. Fluff the rice with a fork after sitting for 5 minutes, then serve with white sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 85gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Make sure to rinse the basmati rice before cooking for optimal texture. Adjust seasoning based on personal preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!