Halal Chicken and Rice

Step 1

Combine the lemon juice, oregano, coriander, garlic, and olive oil in a blender and blend until smooth and well combined.

Step 2

Season the marinade to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Place the chicken in a 1-gallon zipper-lock bag and add half of the marinade (reserve the remaining marinade in the refrigerator).

Step 4

Turn the chicken to coat, seal the bag, and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours, turning occasionally to redistribute the marinade Do not marinate for longer than 4 hours. If need to wait longer, remove chicken from mariade and pat dry and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5

When ready to use, season with salt and pepper, going heavy on the pepper.

Step 6

Heat the oil in a 12-inch heavy-bottomed cast iron or stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat until it is lightly smoking.

Step 7

Add the chicken pieces and cook without disturbing until they are lightly browned on the first side, about 4 minutes.Turn the chicken and reduce the heat to medium and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the center of each thigh registers 165°F. on an instant-read thermometer, about 6 minutes longer.

Step 8

Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 9

Chop the chicken into 1/2- to 1/4-inch chunks. Transfer to a medium bowl, add the remaining marinade, cover loosely with plastic, and refrigerate while you cook the rice and prepare the sauce.

Step 10

Melt the butter over medium heat in a large heavy pan. Add the turmeric and cumin and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Add the rice and stir to coat.

Step 11

Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 4 minutes.

Step 12

Add the chicken broth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Raise the heat to high and bring to a boil.

Step 13

Cover, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes without disturbing. Remove from the heat and allow to rest until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 14

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yogurt, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, parsley, Whisk to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 15

Return chicken, reserved marinade, and all pan juices to the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. To serve, divide the rice, lettuce, tomato, and toasted pita bread evenly among four to six plates. Pile the chicken on top of the rice. Top with the white sauce. Serve immediately. Have extra sauce on hand!