Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad (Printable)

Spiced chicken meets crispy rice with fresh vegetables in a tangy yogurt dressing

# What You Need:

→ 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
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 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 and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from pan and keep warm.
03 - Wipe the 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 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 vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
06 - Drizzle with Greek yogurt. Toss again to coat evenly or serve with yogurt dolloped on top.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper. Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The crispy rice adds this incredible crunch that makes every bite exciting
  • Seven ingredients are all you need for something that tastes complex and special
  • It works warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
02 -
  • Do not skip the step of pressing the rice into the pan and letting it crisp undisturbed, that texture is what makes this special
  • Chicken slices will continue cooking slightly when you add them to the warm vegetables, so do not overcook them in the pan
03 -
  • Cold rice from the refrigerator is nonnegotiable for getting that perfect crispy texture
  • Let the spice blend really cling to the chicken by tossing it thoroughly in the bowl

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