Chicken Shawarma Crispy Rice Salad (Recipe for Printing)

Enjoy a crispy rice chicken shawarma salad, layered with fresh cucumber and tomatoes, and finished with garlic lemon tahini. Ideal for June dinners or gatherings. Save & click.

# What You Need:

→ Protein

01 - 1 pound chicken thighs or chicken breasts

→ Marinade

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Base

08 - 2 cups cooked white rice, cooled

→ Salad

09 - 1 English cucumber, diced
10 - 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
11 - 1 small red onion, diced
12 - Fresh herbs, such as parsley and mint, chopped
13 - Pickles, for garnish (optional)

→ Dressing

14 - 3 tablespoons tahini
15 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
16 - 1 garlic clove, minced
17 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
18 - 2 tablespoons water, or as needed to thin

# How to Make It:

01 - In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
02 - Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken, turning once, until fully cooked and juices run clear, about 6-8 minutes per side. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Spread cooled rice in an even layer and cook without stirring until the bottom turns golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, crisp rice in an air fryer at 400°F for 10 minutes.
04 - Dice cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Chop fresh herbs. Set aside for salad assembly.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water until smooth and creamy. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
06 - Spread crispy rice on a large platter. Top with sliced chicken, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs. Drizzle with tahini dressing and garnish with pickles if desired.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For extra crunch, ensure rice is thoroughly cooled before crisping in the skillet or air fryer.