Introduction

Halal Cart Chicken and Rice is a beloved dish originating from food carts in New York City, known for their flavorful meals. This recipe captures the essence of those iconic street foods, offering a delightful blend of seasoned chicken served over a generous portion of fluffy rice, accompanied by fresh salad and tangy white sauce. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish brings a taste of the city right to your home kitchen.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken thighs – 1 pound
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Rice (long grain or basmati) – 1 cup
Chicken broth or water – 2 cups
Lettuce – 1 cup, shredded
Tomato – 1, diced
Cucumber – 1, diced
White sauce (store-bought or homemade) – for drizzling

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, add the rinsed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, then sauté onion and garlic until softened. Stir in the lemon juice, tahini, and a little water to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Assemble the Dish

On a plate, serve a generous portion of rice topped with sliced chicken. Drizzle the sauce over the top and add chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Serve with additional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or cucumber if desired.

Notes

Storage

Leftover chicken and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Adjusting Spice Levels

Feel free to adjust the spices in the chicken marinade based on your heat preference. Adding cayenne pepper can increase the spice level.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with pita bread, salad, or a yogurt sauce. Consider adding a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Vegan Option

To make a vegan version of this dish, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and follow the same marinade and cooking instructions.

Cook techniques

Grilling

The chicken is marinated and then grilled to achieve a smoky flavor and juicy texture.

Cooking Rice

The rice is cooked separately, ensuring it remains fluffy and absorbs the flavors from the chicken and sauce.

Making Sauce

A flavorful sauce is prepared, incorporating spices and ingredients for an aromatic finish.

Preparing Vegetables

Fresh vegetables can be sautéed or served raw, adding a crunchy element to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Adding chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade or sauce can increase the spice level.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, the chicken and rice can be cooked ahead of time and reheated before serving.

What should I serve with the chicken and rice?

You can serve it with a side salad, pita bread, or even additional sauces for extra flavor.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be portioned out for easy meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

The Halal Cart Chicken and Rice offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that pay homage to the original street food experience. It is a perfect dish for those looking to indulge in a hearty meal while maintaining halal dietary guidelines. With its seasoned chicken over a bed of fluffy rice and the addition of fresh vegetables and sauces, this dish is not only satisfying but also versatile enough to customize to your taste preferences.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Rice Bowl

Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative, served over the same seasoned rice and topped with tahini sauce.

Gyro Platter

Replace the chicken with lamb or beef gyro meat, served with a side of rice, Greek salad, and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean flair.

Spicy Shrimp and Rice

Add sautéed shrimp, seasoned with cayenne and paprika, over your rice and top it with a spicy yogurt sauce for a seafood twist.

Chicken Shawarma Rice

Try marinated chicken thighs cooked to perfection, served with rice, pickles, and garlic sauce for a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish.

Curry Chicken Rice

Incorporate curry spices into the chicken marinade and serve over coconut-infused rice, garnished with cilantro for an exotic experience.

Beef Chop Rice Bowl

Use marinated beef strips instead of chicken, grilled or pan-seared, accompanied by rice and topped with a sweet chili sauce for an Asian-inspired dish.