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Halal Cart-Style Chicken and Rice

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American Street Food, Middle Eastern
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 3 chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Rice
  • 3/4 cup long-grain white or basmati rice, washed
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
For the White Sauce
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp white vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  • 1/2 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional
  • Chopped lettuce
  • Diced tomato
  • Pita bread

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Small saucepan with lid
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all seasonings. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
  2. Make the Sauce: Whisk all white sauce ingredients together. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Cook the Rice: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add washed rice, turmeric, and cumin. Stir for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through to 165°F.
  5. Assemble: Divide rice between bowls and top with chicken and white sauce. Serve with lettuce, tomato, and warm pita if desired.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs can be substituted with chicken breast, although thighs will provide a juicier result.
  • Basmati or long-grain white rice both work well.
  • Adjust the salt and pepper in the white sauce to your preference.
  • For a more authentic cart-style presentation, serve with lettuce, tomato, pita, and plenty of white sauce.
  • Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.