Description
Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that perfectly combines tender, spiced chicken with golden crispy rice, fresh vegetables, and a zesty tahini dressing. This easy Middle Eastern dinner recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Each bite bursts with rich spices and refreshing ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 cups cooked rice (cooled)
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ¼ cup tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; coat chicken and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Grill or pan-fry on medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
- Crisp the rice: Heat oil in a skillet and add cooled rice; cook until golden brown and crunchy.
- Prepare vegetables: Dice cucumber and tomatoes; slice red onion; chop fresh herbs.
- Make the dressing: Whisk tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water in a bowl until creamy.
- Assemble salad: Layer crispy rice in a serving bowl; top with chicken slices, diced vegetables, fresh herbs, and drizzle with dressing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling/Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg