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Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650
A flavorful and crispy rice salad topped with marinated chicken and fresh herbs, inspired by Middle Eastern flavors.

Ingredients

Marinade & Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • to taste Salt & black pepper Salt & black pepper

Crispy Rice

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Salad & Dressing

  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup mint, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (for dressing)
  • 1 tsp sumac
  • to taste Salt & black pepper (for dressing) Salt & black pepper (for dressing)

Instructions 

  • Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and spices. Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour.
  • Rinse rice until water runs clear. Cook in salted water until tender, then drain.
  • Heat oil, spread rice in pan, and cook until golden, then flip and crisp lightly.
  • Bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, rest, then slice.
  • Combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, herbs, and onion in a bowl. Whisk dressing ingredients.
  • Spread crispy rice on a platter, top with salad, and sliced chicken.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and serve with warm flatbread.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keyword: Chicken, Rice Salad, Shawarma