As I chopped vibrant vegetables and marinated the chicken, the irresistible aroma of spices filled my kitchen, transforming it into a cozy haven. If you’ve ever craved a delicious and satisfying meal that brings a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table, you’re in for a treat with this Chicken Shawarma Bowl. It’s the perfect blend of juicy, spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and fluffy rice, coupled with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce that elevates every bite. Not only is this dish a hearty option for busy weeknights, but it’s also a customizable meal prep favorite that caters to every palate. Whether you’re gluten-free or looking for healthy, low-carb alternatives, this bowl has you covered. Ready to channel your inner chef and create something delightful? Let’s dive in! Why is this Chicken Shawarma Bowl irresistible? Flavorful and aromatic, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl brings authentic Middle Eastern spices right to your kitchen. Customizable to your heart’s content, you can substitute ingredients based on dietary preferences or seasonal veggies. Effortless for meal prep, it makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Enjoy a guilt-free meal packed with nutrition, all while delighting in the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. If you’re a fan of easy yet impressive dishes, this bowl is a must-try! For a complete meal plan, check out my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet recipe for more inspiration. Chicken Shawarma Bowl Ingredients For the Chicken Marinade Chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, they soak up all the delightful shawarma spices. Olive oil – Adds moisture to the marinade; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor. Lemon juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; freshly squeezed is always best! Greek yogurt – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor; non-dairy yogurt works for a vegan option. Spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne) – Essential for creating that signature shawarma flavor profile; toast before grinding for enhanced taste. Salt and pepper – Crucial for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences. For the Base Rice (jasmine or basmati) – Serves as a filling base for the bowl; consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. For the Fresh Vegetables Cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch; consider pickled cucumbers for extra flavor! Cherry tomatoes – Sweet bursts of flavor that complement the chicken beautifully. Red onion – Provides a mild, sharp taste; soak in water to mellow if desired. Lettuce – Brings texture and color; any seasonal greens can be used for customization. For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce Minced garlic – The star ingredient in the sauce that offers a bold flavor; adjust to your liking. Fresh herbs (parsley, mint) – Optional but highly recommended for freshness and a pop of color in the bowl. Experiment with these ingredients to create your personalized Chicken Shawarma Bowl! Whether you’re prepping for the week or simply searching for a healthy dinner, this recipe is bound to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma Bowl Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a bowl, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-covered. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours is ideal for deeper flavor penetration. Step 2: Make Garlic Yogurt Sauce While the chicken marinates, it’s time to prepare the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, a splash of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Once well mixed, cover and refrigerate until you are ready to serve the Chicken Shawarma Bowl, allowing the flavors to meld. Step 3: Cook Rice Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch. Cook the rice according to package instructions, typically in a pot with water brought to a boil. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork to ensure each grain is separate and light. Set aside to keep warm while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Step 4: Prepare Vegetables As the rice cooks, wash and chop your fresh vegetables. Dice the cucumber, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the lettuce. Arrange the fresh vegetables and any herbs like parsley or mint into serving bowls, providing a vibrant and crunchy contrast to the Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Step 5: Cook Chicken Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and place it in the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Step 6: Assemble Bowls To create your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, start with a generous scoop of warm rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, a rainbow of fresh vegetables, and drizzle the creamy garlic yogurt sauce liberally on top. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor and color, creating a delightful and satisfying meal ready to be enjoyed. How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma Bowl Fridge: Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. This helps keep the flavors vibrant. Yogurt Sauce: The creamy garlic yogurt sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent any odor absorption. Freezer: Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw chicken overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to preserve its tenderness for your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Chicken Shawarma Bowl Variations Feel free to explore exciting variations that will make your Chicken Shawarma Bowl uniquely yours! Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a vegan-friendly option that maintains creaminess. Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to cut carbs while still enjoying a satisfying base. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of za’atar or harissa to the marinade for an extra flavor kick that will awaken your palate. Veggie-Loaded: Toss in roasted bell peppers or carrots for a sweet, smoky flavor that takes your bowl to the next level. Herb-Infused Sauce: Mix in fresh dill or cilantro into the garlic yogurt sauce for a burst of unique flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Add Crunch: Top with toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts for an extra layer of texture that elevates each bite. Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime or orange juice over the assembled bowl just before serving to brighten the entire dish! Protein Swap: Try using grilled lamb or beef for a distinctive taste; both pair beautifully with the shawarma spices and can be a wonderful change. No matter how you choose to customize it, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl remains an incredible canvas for flavor and freshness. For more meal prep inspiration, don’t forget to check out my delicious Honey BBQ Chicken recipe that’s perfect for busy nights! Make Ahead Options These Chicken Shawarma Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully (just remember to refrigerate the chicken to maintain its juiciness). Additionally, the garlic yogurt sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before serving. Fresh vegetables can be chopped up to 3 days beforehand; simply store them in airtight containers to keep them crisp. When it’s time to enjoy your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, cook the chicken and rice fresh for the best texture, then assemble and top with veggies and sauce for a delicious, hassle-free meal that saves you time on busy weeknights. Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma Bowl Choose Thighs: For optimal juiciness and flavor, always go with chicken thighs instead of breasts for your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Marinate Longer: To enhance flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you can. This ensures a delicious depth of flavor. Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the chicken, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust and prevents steaming. Toast Your Spices: Always toast the spices before using them in your marinade; this maximizes their flavor and adds complexity to your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your personal spice preference. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste! Add Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip the fresh herbs in the yogurt sauce; they bring a vibrant freshness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the bowl. What to Serve with Authentic Chicken Shawarma Bowl Transform your weeknight dinner into a delightful culinary experience with these tasty pairings that enhance your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Creamy Hummus: This smooth and rich dip brings a nutty flavor and complements the spices, making it a perfect appetizer before your main dish. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes add a comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the aromatic chicken. Tabbouleh Salad: A light and fresh parsley salad, it offers a refreshing contrast to the savory shawarma flavors, bringing freshness to your meal. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky and tender, grilled eggplant adds depth and earthiness, forming a delightful balance with the warmth of the spices in the chicken. Pita Bread: Soft and warm, pita bread is perfect for scooping and enjoying every bite of the bowl’s ingredients, bringing an authentic Middle Eastern experience to the table. Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness, perfectly complementing the flavors of your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Baklava: Indulge in this sweet pastry for dessert; its honey and nut-filled layers provide a delightful finish after a savory meal, giving you that perfect sweet contrast. Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for the Chicken Shawarma Bowl? Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for this recipe as they are juicier and more flavorful than breasts. The thighs absorb the marinade beautifully, giving you that tender, authentic shawarma taste. How should I store the Chicken Shawarma Bowl? To keep everything fresh, store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the vibrancy of the flavors. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce can be kept for up to 5 days, so make sure it’s tightly sealed. Can I freeze the cooked chicken for my Chicken Shawarma Bowl? Yes, you can! Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet. What if the chicken is dry after cooking? If your chicken turns out dry, it might be due to overcooking. Always check for the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) and be mindful of cooking time, usually about 6-8 minutes per side. Ensure you’re marinating it for at least 2-4 hours to enhance moisture retention. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Yes, if you’re accommodating specific dietary needs, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl is easily customizable! You can switch the chicken for tofu or lamb for a different protein, and use non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option. Always check for allergies related to any spices or ingredients you might use. How do I adjust the spiciness of the shawarma? Very simple! You can easily control the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade to fit your taste preferences. Start with a pinch and gradually increase. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint add depth and balance if you want to mellow the spice further! Delicious Chicken Shawarma Bowl for Easy Meal Prep Nights This Chicken Shawarma Bowl combines juicy, marinated chicken with fresh veggies, rice, and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce for a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: ChickenCuisine: Middle EasternCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade1 lb chicken thighs juicy and tender2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed1 cup Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt1 tsp cumin toasted1 tsp coriander toasted1 tsp paprika toasted1 tsp garlic powder toasted0.5 tsp cayenne adjust to taste1 tsp salt to taste1 tsp pepper to tasteFor the Base1 cup rice jasmine or basmatiFor the Fresh Vegetables1 medium cucumber diced1 cup cherry tomatoes halved0.5 medium red onion thinly sliced2 cups lettuce roughly choppedFor the Garlic Yogurt Sauce2 cloves minced garlic adjust to liking1 tbsp fresh herbs parsley or mint, optional Equipment BowlSkilletWhiskpotKnife Method Chicken MarinadeIn a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and spices. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours.Garlic Yogurt SauceIn a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, a splash of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.Rice PreparationRinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions, fluffing with a fork once done.Fresh Vegetables PreparationWash and chop fresh vegetables. Arrange them in serving bowls.Chicken CookingHeat a skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of olive oil. Cook marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.Bowl AssemblyTo assemble, add rice to bowls followed by sliced chicken, fresh vegetables, and drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce. Garnish with herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesThis Chicken Shawarma Bowl is customizable and perfect for meal prep. Adjust spices and vegetables based on personal preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
