Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a delicious, wholesome, and protein-packed meal that brings Middle Eastern flavors to your table. This dish consists of juicy, spiced chicken served over a bed of rice, greens, or grains, paired with fresh vegetables, creamy sauces, and a burst of zesty flavors. Whether you’re looking for a meal-prep-friendly option or a quick weeknight dinner, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl recipe will satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Packed with Flavor – The combination of warm spices, garlic, and lemon makes the chicken incredibly tasty.
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Easy to Customize – You can switch up the grains, veggies, and sauces to suit your preferences.
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Healthy and Nutritious – High in protein and loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients.
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Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Shawarma
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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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3 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp ground coriander
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp ground turmeric
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Bowl Base
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2 cups cooked basmati rice, quinoa, or couscous
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1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
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1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cucumber, diced
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup chopped parsley
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1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
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1/2 cup Greek yogurt
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
Timing
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Marination Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (recommended)
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marination)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Bowl Base
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the base. Cook the rice or grains according to package instructions and chop all the vegetables.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Start with a layer of rice or quinoa, then add greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and parsley. Place sliced chicken on top and drizzle with the garlic yogurt sauce. Sprinkle with feta cheese if using.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with warm pita bread or hummus on the side for an authentic touch.
Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Marination Matters
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. Overnight marination will make it even better!
Use Thighs for Juiciness
Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy compared to chicken breasts, making them the best choice for this recipe.
Get the Perfect Char
Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan to get that smoky, slightly charred exterior on the chicken.
Variations and Additions
Vegetarian Option
Swap chicken for chickpeas or roasted cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian version.
Low-Carb Version
Replace rice with cauliflower rice or serve over a bed of greens for a keto-friendly meal.
Extra Toppings
Add olives, pickled onions, or a drizzle of tahini for extra Middle Eastern flavors.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warm.
Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma Bowl
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High in Protein – The chicken provides essential protein for muscle growth and repair.
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Rich in Fiber – Vegetables and whole grains add fiber, aiding digestion.
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Loaded with Antioxidants – The spices used in shawarma have anti-inflammatory properties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Marination
Not allowing enough marination time will result in less flavorful chicken.
Overcooking the Chicken
Cooking too long can make the chicken dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/75°C).
Using the Wrong Yogurt
Greek yogurt is the best choice for a thick, creamy sauce. Regular yogurt may be too thin.
Conclusion
This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick and healthy dinner. With its bold spices, fresh toppings, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right at home.