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Chicken shawarma rice bowl topped with garlic yogurt sauce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and fluffy white rice.

Chicken Shawarma Rice Boxes

Avatar photoNina Miller
A flavorful and healthy meal prep option featuring spiced chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 boxes
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 grill pan
  • 1 Saucepan for rice

Ingredients
  

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

Rice

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cucumber sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup hummus or tzatziki sauce

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
  • Rinse rice until water runs clear. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan, add rice, and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
  • Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred. Let rest before slicing.

Serving

  • Divide cooked rice among four containers. Top each with sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Add a dollop of hummus or tzatziki sauce before sealing.

Storage

  • Keep rice boxes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store sauce separately to maintain freshness.
  • When ready to eat, microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of water to rice before reheating to keep it moist.

Notes

Pro Tips: Marinate the chicken overnight for best flavor. Grill over high heat for a smoky char.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use jasmine rice for a different texture. Swap hummus with tzatziki for a tangy twist.
How to Serve: Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in airtight containers, store sauce separately.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge for quick meal access.
Keyword Healthy Lunch, Meal Prep, shawarma