Are you ready to savor the rich flavors of the Middle East right in your kitchen?
A Chicken Shawarma Bowl offers a healthy twist on traditional shawarma, loaded with spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce!
Packed with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this dish is perfect for meal prepping or family dinners.
Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing, customizable bowl that’s both delicious and nourishing.
What is a Chicken Shawarma Bowl?
Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made of marinated meat, typically served in a wrap or on a platter with sides.
The Chicken Shawarma Bowl takes this concept and elevates it by presenting all the elements in a colorful bowl format.
- Origins of Shawarma: Shawarma has its roots in the Middle East, where it has been a beloved street food for generations. The word “shawarma” comes from the Arabic word “شاورما,” meaning “to turn,” referring to the way the meat is cooked on a rotating spit.
- Healthy and Versatile: The bowl format not only makes it visually appealing but also allows for customization. You can choose your favorite base, proteins, and toppings, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Difference Between a Bowl and Wrap: While a shawarma wrap is typically served in pita bread, a bowl offers more room for creativity with layers of grains, proteins, vegetables, and sauces.
Ingredients Needed for a Chicken Shawarma Bowl
To make a delicious Chicken Shawarma Bowl, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- Chicken thighs or breasts (thighs for more flavor)
- Shawarma spices: cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper
- Olive oil and lemon juice for marination
- For the Base:
- Choose from rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Fresh Vegetables:
- Cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and lettuce or mixed greens
- For Toppings:
- Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
- Optional pickled onions, olives, or feta cheese for added flavor
- Sauce Options:
- Tahini sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, or tzatziki for a refreshing finish
How to Marinate Chicken for the Perfect Shawarma Flavor
Marinating the chicken is key to achieving the authentic shawarma flavor.
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, and your chosen spices. You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into strips and coat them in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight in the fridge.
- Juicy and Flavorful: The longer you marinate, the more flavor infuses into the meat, resulting in tender and juicy chicken!
Cooking Methods for Shawarma-Style Chicken
There are several methods to cook your marinated chicken:
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and cook the chicken strips for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Grill: For an authentic smoky flavor, grill the chicken over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side until nicely charred.
No matter which method you choose, ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Building Your Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Now that you have your flavorful chicken, it’s time to assemble your bowl!
- Start with the Base: Choose your grain—rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Spoon a generous amount into the bottom of your bowl.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Layer in your chopped veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce. This adds crunch and freshness.
- Top with Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken and place it atop the veggies.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Finish with your choice of sauce. A tangy tahini or a garlic yogurt sauce is perfect for bringing everything together.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and any additional toppings you like, such as pickled onions or olives.
Healthy Benefits of a Chicken Shawarma Bowl
The Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not just delicious; it’s also nutritious!
- High in Protein and Fiber: With chicken as the main protein source and fiber from fresh vegetables and grains, this meal is balanced and filling.
- Mediterranean Spices: The spices used in shawarma, like cumin and coriander, offer anti-inflammatory benefits and add depth of flavor.
- Customizable: Whether you’re following a gluten-free, low-carb, or vegetarian diet, you can adapt the bowl to suit your needs.
Tips for Meal Prepping and Storing Shawarma Bowls
If you’re looking to save time, meal prepping your Chicken Shawarma Bowls is a great option.
- Prep Components Ahead: Marinate and cook the chicken in advance. Prepare your grains and chop veggies so everything is ready to go.
- Store Separately: Keep the components in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you can easily assemble your bowls throughout the week.
- Reheating Tips: To reheat, warm the chicken and grains in the microwave, but keep fresh veggies and sauce separate until ready to eat to maintain their texture.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and prepare the veggies ahead of time. Store components separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
What can I substitute for tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can use Greek yogurt or a homemade garlic yogurt sauce as a creamy alternative.
Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs boneless, skinless or chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked rice quinoa, or cauliflower rice
Fresh Vegetables:
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cups lettuce or mixed greens
For Toppings:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or mint chopped
- Optional: pickled onions olives, or feta cheese
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Water to thin as needed
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper) until well combined.
- Cut the chicken into strips or cubes and add it to the marinade. Ensure the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
Cook the Chicken
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until nicely charred.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Stir well and add water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Assemble the Bowl
- Start with your base: scoop cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice into each bowl.
- Add a generous layer of the cooked chicken on top of the grains.
- Layer in the fresh vegetables: cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and lettuce.
- Drizzle with tahini sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley or mint. Add any optional toppings like pickled onions or olives if desired.