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Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad

Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad That Will Wow Your Tastebuds

Discover the delightful Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad, packed with vibrant flavors and textures for a refreshing meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs or Breasts Marinated for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for authentic shawarma flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can use fresh minced garlic, doubling the quantity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Omit if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Salad Base
  • 2 cups Cooked Rice (cooled) Use brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain option.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Can use bell pepper for variety.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Substitutes include cherry tomatoes or avocado.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Can be replaced with green onion.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro) Basil or mint can be alternatives.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Tahini Crucial for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Can use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Adjust based on desired consistency.

Equipment

  • Grill Pan or Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • large skillet

Method
 

Marinate and Cook Chicken
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper to form a marinade. Add chicken, coat thoroughly, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
  2. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 7-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
Crisp Rice
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add cooled rice, spreading evenly and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
  2. Alternatively, air fry rice at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes for a healthier option.
Prepare Vegetables and Dressing
  1. While rice is crisping, dice cucumber and tomatoes, slice red onion, and chop fresh herbs.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water until smooth. Chill for 15 minutes.
Assemble Salad
  1. Layer crispy rice in a large bowl, top with sliced chicken, diced vegetables, and fresh herbs. Drizzle dressing over the top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Store components separately in the fridge and assemble just before serving for best texture.

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