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Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad – Easy Middle Eastern Dinner Recipe

Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad – A Quick Middle Eastern Feast

Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad is a vibrant and healthy Middle Eastern dinner that impresses with crispy rice and marinated chicken.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken thighs or breasts Substitute with turkey or tofu if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Avocado oil can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Coriander can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used instead.
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric Can be omitted.
  • to taste salt & pepper
For the Salad Base
  • 3 cups cooked rice (cooled) Any grain can be used as a base.
  • 1 cup cucumber Can substitute with bell peppers.
  • 1 cup tomatoes Cherry tomatoes work well.
  • 1/2 cup red onion Green onions can be used as a milder option.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup tahini Yogurt can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Lime juice is a good substitute.
  • 1 clove garlic Adjust according to taste.
  • 3 tablespoons water Add more if needed to thin the dressing.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • grill
  • mixing bowl
  • Airtight containers

Method
 

Marinade and Cook Chicken
  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Crisp the Rice
  1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooled rice and cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
Prepare Vegetables and Dressing
  1. Chop cucumber, dice tomatoes, slice red onion, and finely chop parsley or cilantro.
  2. Whisk tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Chill the dressing for at least 15 minutes.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Layer crispy rice in a large bowl, top with sliced chicken, then add chopped vegetables. Drizzle with tahini dressing and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Store salad components separately for freshness.

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