Imagine a dish that transports your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East, all from the comfort of your kitchen! Our One Skillet Baked Chicken Shawarma and Rice Pilaf is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, aromatic flavors of shawarma with the comforting essence of perfectly cooked basmati rice. In just 50 minutes, you can create a vibrant, mouthwatering feast that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy yet impressive recipe that’s packed with flavor and simplicity!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp shawarma spice mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix shawarma spice blend with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a marinade. Coat chicken thighs thoroughly with the mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining olive oil and sauté diced onions until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Rinse basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear. Add rice to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine rice, onions, and broth. Bring to a brief simmer.
- Arrange marinated chicken thighs on top of the rice, skin-side up if using skin-on thighs.
- Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and rice is tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow rice to absorb remaining moisture.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: For an even more flavorful chicken, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight in the shawarma spice mix. This will enhance the depth of flavor.
- Use High-Quality Spices: The key to authentic shawarma flavor is in the spices. If possible, use freshly ground spices or high-quality store-bought shawarma spice mix for the best results.
- Don't Skip the Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture and ensures that every bite is perfectly tender.
- Customize Your Garnish: While fresh parsley is a classic garnish, feel free to add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or toasted pine nuts for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- One-Pan Wonder: Make sure to use a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet to keep the cooking process seamless. This not only helps with even cooking but also makes for an impressive presentation when serving.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve with Sides: Consider pairing your dish with a side of yogurt sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances the rich flavors of the shawarma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
