Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad (Print View)
Spiced chicken meets crispy rice and fresh vegetables in a tangy yogurt dressing for a bold, satisfying meal.
# Ingredient List:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 14 ounces)
→ Grains
02 - 2 cups cooked basmati rice, preferably cold and day-old
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 large cucumber, diced
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
→ Dairy & Dressing
06 - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
→ Spices & Oil
07 - 2 tablespoons shawarma spice blend or ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, and cayenne mix
08 - 4 tablespoons olive oil
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
# How to Make:
01 - Slice chicken breasts into thin strips. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, shawarma spice blend, and generous pinch of salt. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from pan and keep warm.
03 - Wipe skillet clean. Add remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and cooked rice. Press into even layer and cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until bottom is golden and crispy. Stir, then let crisp for another 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
04 - In a large bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
05 - Add crispy rice and cooked chicken to vegetables. Toss gently.
06 - Drizzle with Greek yogurt. Toss again or serve with yogurt dolloped on top. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You get that incredible crispy rice texture usually reserved for restaurant dishes
- Seven ingredients create layers of flavor that taste like you spent hours
02 -
- Resist the urge to stir the rice too often, that patience creates the crispy texture
- The chicken needs at least 10 minutes to marinate for maximum flavor
03 -
- Spend extra time slicing the chicken thinly, it makes all the difference
- Spread the rice in an even layer and do not touch it until you hear it sizzle