Mock Halal guys chicken bowls
### Halal Guys Chicken Bowl with Saffron Rice and Garlicky Naan
#### Ingredients
**For the Chicken:**
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
**For the Saffron Rice:**
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
**For the Toppings:**
- 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- White sauce (recipe below)
**For the White Sauce:**
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
**For the Garlicky Naan:**
- 4 naan breads
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
#### Instructions
1. **Marinate the Chicken:**
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
2. **Prepare the Saffron Rice:**
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, bring water (or broth) to a boil. Add the saffron threads and let them steep for a few minutes.
- Stir in the rice, butter, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
3. **Cook the Chicken:**
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
4. **Make the White Sauce:**
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust salt to taste. Set aside.
5. **Prepare the Garlicky Naan:**
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic. Brush the garlic butter over the naan breads.
- Optional: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the naan for extra flavor.
- Heat the naan in a skillet or oven for about 2-3 minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
6. **Assemble the Bowl:**
- In a bowl, layer the saffron rice, topped with chopped chicken, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of white sauce.
7. **Serve:**
- Serve the chicken bowls alongside garlicky naan for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your homemade Halal Guys-inspired chicken bowl with all the vibrant flavors!