Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad (Printable)
Spiced chicken meets crispy rice and fresh vegetables in a tangy yogurt dressing
# What You Need:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz)
→ Grains
02 - 2 cups cooked basmati rice, preferably cold, 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
# Steps:
01 - Slice chicken breasts into thin strips. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, shawarma spice blend, and a generous pinch of salt in a bowl. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken strips and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from pan and keep warm.
03 - Wipe the skillet clean, add remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, then add cooked rice. Press into an even layer and cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until bottom is golden and crispy. Stir and let crisp for another 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
04 - In a large bowl, combine diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
05 - Add crispy rice and cooked chicken to the vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
06 - Drizzle with Greek yogurt. Toss again or serve with yogurt dolloped on top. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or at room temperature.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The crispy rice creates this incredible crunch that makes every bite interesting
- Seven ingredients mean less time shopping and more time eating
- It hits that perfect spot between light salad and satisfying hot meal
02 -
- Resist the urge to stir the rice while it crisps, that golden bottom is worth the patience
- Letting the chicken marinate even 20 minutes makes a huge difference in flavor depth
03 -
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken or it will steam instead of sear
- Sumac sprinkled on top adds this incredible tart citrusy finish