Craving a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare? This Chicken Shawarma Bowl brings the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy garlic sauce, it’s the perfect dish for busy individuals seeking a wholesome dinner option.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Bowl :
This recipe combines the rich, spiced flavors of traditional shawarma with the convenience of a bowl meal. It’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings, and offers a balanced mix of protein, grains, and veggies. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your family to the delights of Middle Eastern cuisine without needing a passport!
For more inspiration, check out our Homemade Falafel Wraps for another flavorful, easy-to-make Middle Eastern meal.
Want to learn more about the origins of Chicken Shawarma? Check out this history of shawarma from Serious Eats.
Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma Bowl :
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 6 to 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 lemons, juiced
- ½ cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
- 1 red onion, roughly chopped
For the Bowls:
- 1½ cups dry jasmine rice
- 1 English cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup hummus or whole chickpeas
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Feta cheese crumbles, optional
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ English cucumber, peeled and diced
- ½ teaspoon dried dill weed
- 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowl
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add the chicken thighs and chopped red onion, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Rice
Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, diced cucumber, dried dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly grease a baking pan and arrange the marinated chicken thighs and red onions in a single layer. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Assemble the Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Start with a base of cooked jasmine rice in each bowl. Top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, a dollop of hummus or chickpeas, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and feta cheese crumbles if desired.
Looking for another healthy and flavorful option? Try our Mediterranean Quinoa Salad for a refreshing side dish!
If you love bold flavors, don’t miss our Spicy Harissa Chicken for another delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma Bowl :
- Marinating Magic: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate overnight. This allows the spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Rice Alternatives: Feel free to substitute jasmine rice with brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a different texture and nutritional profile.
- Vegetable Variations: Add or substitute veggies based on your preference—roasted bell peppers, pickled onions, or shredded lettuce make great additions.
Want to perfect your tzatziki sauce? Check out this tzatziki recipe guide from The Kitchn.
Personal Touch :
The first time I made this Chicken Shawarma Bowl, it quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of the spices roasting filled the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. Now, it’s our go-to recipe for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends.
FAQs :
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; however, thighs tend to remain juicier and more flavorful after roasting.
How can I store leftovers?
Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and rice will keep for up to 3 days, while the tzatziki sauce is best consumed within 2 days.
Is there a vegetarian version of this bowl?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the rich, authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. Enjoy the journey of tastes and textures with every bite!
Want more healthy protein-packed meals? Check out our Spiced Lentil Soup for another comforting dish!
For even more Middle Eastern flavors, try our Garlic Butter Lamb Chops for a decadent and satisfying meal.