Description
Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines juicy marinated chicken, crispy rice, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this salad boasts a delightful crunch and aromatic spices, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm or cold; it’s customizable to suit your taste!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp shawarma spice blend
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
- 2 cups cooked short-grain rice
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Mix shawarma spice blend with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat chicken breasts in the mixture and marinate for at least one hour in the fridge.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
- Prepare the rice: Cook rice according to package instructions. Spread cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool.
- Crisp the rice: Preheat oven to broil. Spread cooled rice on another baking sheet, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and broil for about five minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and lemon juice. Toss gently before adding warm crispy rice.
- Add chicken & serve: Slice rested chicken into strips and place on top of the salad mix. Toss gently and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Broiling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. - Substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variety. - Enhance freshness by adding extra veggies like bell peppers.