Chicken Shawarma Bowls

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the Middle Eastern street food classic, shawarma. These bowls feature tender, marinated chicken, seasoned with aromatic spices, served on a bed of fresh vegetables, rice, and drizzled with a creamy garlic sauce or tahini dressing. The combination of textures and flavors—tender chicken, crispy veggies, warm rice, and zesty sauces—makes this dish a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, dinner, or meal prep idea, Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a perfect choice. The recipe is easy to follow, making it ideal for anyone craving a fresh and delicious meal packed with bold flavors.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep for the week
• Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine lovers
• Healthy, balanced meals
• Hosting dinner parties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Here’s why Chicken Shawarma Bowls are going to be your new favorite meal:

• Authentic Flavor: The chicken is marinated in a blend of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, giving it a unique and complex flavor that’s both savory and aromatic.
• Healthy and Customizable: The bowl can be easily customized with a variety of toppings and sauces to suit your preferences. Add more veggies, switch up the rice for quinoa, or go heavy on the tahini sauce. The choice is yours!
• Balanced Meal: These bowls offer a great balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a filling, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bowls are easy to prepare and serve, making them a great option for family dinners or meal prepping in advance.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is halal as it uses chicken and no pork, bacon, or alcohol, making it suitable for those following halal dietary guidelines.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional for best flavor)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 500-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

To make the Chicken Shawarma Bowls, here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (halal-certified)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt (or dairy-free if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice (or quinoa if preferred)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup shredded lettuce (optional)
• 1/3 cup pickled turnips or pickles (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Garlic Sauce or Tahini Dressing:

• ½ cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tablespoons tahini (optional for tahini dressing)
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Water to thin the sauce if necessary

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges
• Extra garlic sauce or tahini dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

for Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Chicken Shawarma Bowls:

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade for Chicken Shawarma Bowls

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though marinating for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken for Chicken Shawarma Bowls

1. Preheat the Grill or Pan: Heat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Chicken: Once the grill or skillet is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs on it. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
3. Rest and Slice: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. Then, slice it into thin strips, ensuring each piece is tender and juicy.

3. Assemble the Chicken Shawarma Bowls

1. Prepare the Rice: If you haven’t done so already, cook the basmati rice according to the package instructions. For added flavor, you can cook the rice with a pinch of salt or a bay leaf.
2. Add Fresh Veggies: In each bowl, create a base with a generous serving of rice. Arrange the diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, and shredded lettuce (if using) in sections around the rice.
3. Add the Chicken: Place the sliced chicken shawarma on top of the rice and vegetables.
4. Garnish and Drizzle: Drizzle the garlic sauce or tahini dressing over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and pickled turnips or pickles, if desired. A squeeze of lemon adds a fresh, zesty flavor.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Once your bowls are assembled, they are ready to be served! The Chicken Shawarma Bowls are perfect as a standalone meal, or you can serve them with extra sides like hummus or pita bread for an even more filling meal.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Chicken Shawarma Bowls can be enjoyed in various ways depending on your mood and the occasion:

• For Meal Prep: These bowls are ideal for preparing in advance. Store the chicken and rice in separate containers and assemble the bowls just before eating. The sauce can also be stored separately to prevent sogginess.
• With Fresh Sides: Serve with a side of homemade hummus, tabbouleh, or pita bread to complement the meal.
• As a Light Lunch or Dinner: These bowls are packed with protein and veggies, making them a well-rounded and satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.
• For Hosting: Create a shawarma bowl bar by setting up all the ingredients separately and letting your guests build their own bowls with the toppings of their choice.

Additional Tips for Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Here are some tips to make your Chicken Shawarma Bowls even better:

• Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they stay moist and tender when cooked. However, you can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but they might not be as juicy.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Marinating the chicken for several hours or overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness, so plan ahead if possible.
• Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like olives, roasted vegetables, or even a dollop of hummus for extra creaminess.
• Make It Gluten-Free: To make the bowls gluten-free, serve with a gluten-free grain such as quinoa or rice, and skip the pita bread.

Recipe Variations of Chicken Shawarma Bowls

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are 10 variations you can try:

• Spicy Chicken Shawarma Bowls: Add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicier kick.
• Chicken Shawarma and Falafel Bowls: Serve the chicken with crispy falafel for a more filling and flavorful bowl.
• Vegan Shawarma Bowls: Replace the chicken with roasted cauliflower or tempeh for a plant-based option.
• Chicken Shawarma with Couscous: Swap the rice for couscous for a different texture and flavor.
• Greek-Style Shawarma Bowls: Add feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a Greek-inspired twist.
• Bulgur Wheat Shawarma Bowls: Use bulgur wheat in place of rice for a hearty, fiber-rich base.
• Shawarma Bowls with Hummus: Add a spoonful of creamy hummus to your bowl for extra richness.
• Keto-Friendly Shawarma Bowls: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb option.
• Chicken Shawarma with Mango Chutney: For a sweet twist, add a spoonful of mango chutney to the bowl.
• Shawarma Salad Bowls: Serve the chicken and toppings on a bed of mixed greens for a lighter, salad-style version.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Shawarma Bowls

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. To store, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
• Storage: Store the assembled bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to prevent the bowls from becoming soggy.

Special Equipment for Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Here are a few tools you might need to make your Chicken Shawarma Bowls:

• Grill or Skillet: A grill or skillet is essential for cooking the chicken to perfection.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will ensure the marinade is flavorful and balanced.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing the chicken thinly for the perfect shawarma texture.
• Rice Cooker: A rice cooker will make cooking the rice easy and consistent.
• Mixing Bowls: Use large bowls to marinate the chicken and mix the sauces.
• Storage Containers: If making the recipe in advance, airtight containers are essential for storing individual components.

FAQ Section about Chicken Shawarma Bowls

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy and flavorful as thighs. Thighs are ideal for this recipe because of their tenderness.
2. Can I make the shawarma marinade ahead of time? Yes, the shawarma marinade can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead of time. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in even more flavorful chicken.
3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free? To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the yogurt with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut yogurt, and ensure the tahini dressing is also dairy-free.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the bowls? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like roasted bell peppers, carrots, or eggplant to the bowls for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free if you serve it with rice or quinoa. Just be sure to avoid pita bread or any other gluten-containing items.

Print

Conclusion: Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Chicken Shawarma Bowls are an incredibly delicious and customizable meal that offers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors. With tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, paired with a variety of vegetables and a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a dinner party, Chicken Shawarma Bowls are versatile, flavorful, and easy to make. Enjoy the fresh and bold tastes of the Middle East right at home!