Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Whenever I think of comfort food that can transport me to another place, I can’t help but think of a Chicken Shawarma Bowl. This dish is a vibrant explosion of flavors, with tender chicken marinated in spices and served over fluffy rice with fresh veggies. The first time I made this, I was inspired by the street food I enjoyed while traveling. The rich aromas of garlic and spices filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite takes you on an adventure, whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it during a special gathering with friends. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable, allowing everyone to build their perfect bowl!

What You Need for Chicken Shawarma Bowl

This Chicken Shawarma Bowl comes together beautifully with a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each plays a role in creating a balanced and fulfilling dish. The spices bring warmth and depth, while the fresh vegetables add brightness and crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.

• 6 to 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs – The star of the dish, these thighs stay juicy and tender, absorbing all the delicious spices.
• 2 lemons, juiced – Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the marinade and adds a zesty flavor.
• 1/2 cup olive oil – This helps to tenderize the chicken while adding richness to the dish.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings an aromatic depth that’s essential in the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper – Adds a warm kick that complements the spices.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin – A warming spice that contributes to the shawarma’s signature flavor.
• 2 teaspoons paprika – Adds color and a mild sweetness to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric – Not just for color, turmeric offers health benefits and earthy notes.
• pinch ground cinnamon – Brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
• crushed red pepper flakes, to taste – A great way to add some heat to your bowl.
• 1 red onion, roughly chopped – Adds sweetness and texture when roasted alongside the chicken.
• 1/2 cup hummus, or whole chickpeas – A creamy addition that complements the dish beautifully.
• 1 English cucumber, chopped – Adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Sweet and juicy, these tomatoes add freshness.
• 1 1/2 cups dry jasmine rice – The perfect base for the bowl, fluffy and fragrant.
• fresh chopped parsley, for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
• feta cheese crumbles, for topping, optional – Adds creaminess and a salty kick.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt – A creamy addition that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – A second punch of garlic for the tzatziki sauce.
• 1 small piece English cucumber, peeled and diced – For the tzatziki, it provides a refreshing crunch.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed – Adds a herbaceous note that brightens the sauce.
• 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice – A final touch of acidity in the tzatziki.
• salt and pepper, to taste – Season to your preference.

Step by Step Guide for Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Creating a Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a joyful experience! You’ll love the smell of spices wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this meal. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be enjoying your own homemade bowl in no time!

1. First, combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. You’ll need to mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk until well blended. The smell will already start to be mouthwatering!

2. Next, add the chicken thighs to the marinade. Make sure they are coated well. It’s best to let the chicken marinate for at least one hour, but if you have time, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to permeate the meat, ensuring it’s packed with taste.

3. While the chicken is marinating, cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. The rice will serve as the base of your bowl, so you want it fluffy and delicious.

4. Now, let’s prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, the second batch of minced garlic, the diced cucumber, dill weed, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set it aside in the fridge to chill.

5. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This is perfect for roasting the chicken to get that delicious golden color! Line a baking pan with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup, and lightly grease it.

6. After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them on the greased pan. Add the roughly chopped red onion around the chicken. This adds sweetness and flavor as it roasts.

7. Roast the chicken for 30 to 40 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You’ll see the chicken turning beautifully golden brown, and the aroma will be irresistible!

8. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each piece even more succulent when you slice it.

9. Now it’s time to assemble your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Start with a generous scoop of the cooked rice as your base. Layer on the sliced chicken and red onion, then add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, a scoop of tzatziki, and hummus.

10. Finally, garnish your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some optional feta cheese crumbles. If you like a bit of spice, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes on top!

Substitutions and Tips

When preparing your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, a few tips can elevate your meal. Here are some pointers to enhance your cooking experience:

• Storage: Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to two months before cooking.
• Pairing: Pair this dish with a light salad or flatbreads for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Extra Flavor: Consider adding pickled vegetables as a topping for an extra zing.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Shawarma Bowl

To truly enjoy your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, consider these pairing suggestions:

• Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette enhances the flavors.
• Flatbreads: Serve with warm pita or naan to scoop up the delicious toppings.
• Occasion: Perfect for casual dinners or meal prep for the week!
• Storage Tips: Keep leftover chicken and rice in separate containers to maintain texture.
• Seasonal Pairing: In summer, add fresh grilled vegetables for a seasonal twist.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that can easily become a favorite in your home. With its tender chicken, fresh ingredients, and customizable options, it’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this dish as it’s not only satisfying but also a fun way to involve the whole family in meal prep. Enjoy every bite of this delicious bowl!

Chicken Shawarma Bowl

The ultimate comfort food, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl is packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices. It's an easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Make it tonight for a delicious and nutritious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Middle Eastern

Servings 6 servings

Calories 490 kcal

Equipment

• Peeler
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 6 to 8 pieces boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 pieces lemons, juiced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• pinch ground cinnamon
• crushed red pepper flakes to taste
• 1 piece red onion, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup hummus, or whole chickpeas
• 1 piece english cucumber, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 1/2 cups dry jasmine rice
• fresh chopped parsley, chopped, for garnish
• feta cheese crumbles for topping, optional
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small piece english cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• First, combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. You’ll need to mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk until well blended. The smell will already start to be mouthwatering!
• Next, add the chicken thighs to the marinade. Make sure they are coated well. It’s best to let the chicken marinate for at least one hour, but if you have time, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to permeate the meat, ensuring it’s packed with taste.
• While the chicken is marinating, cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. The rice will serve as the base of your bowl, so you want it fluffy and delicious.
• Now, let’s prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, the second batch of minced garlic, the diced cucumber, dill weed, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set it aside in the fridge to chill.
• Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This is perfect for roasting the chicken to get that delicious golden color! Line a baking pan with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup, and lightly grease it.
• After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them on the greased pan. Add the roughly chopped red onion around the chicken. This adds sweetness and flavor as it roasts.
• Roast the chicken for 30 to 40 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You’ll see the chicken turning beautifully golden brown, and the aroma will be irresistible!
• Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each piece even more succulent when you slice it.
• Now it’s time to assemble your Chicken Shawarma Bowl. Start with a generous scoop of the cooked rice as your base. Layer on the sliced chicken and red onion, then add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, a scoop of tzatziki, and hummus.
• Finally, garnish your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some optional feta cheese crumbles. If you like a bit of spice, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes on top!

Notes

• Serving size: ½ cup rice, 1 chicken thigh.
• Make Ahead Instructions: Most elements of these shawarma bowls can be prepped ahead: tzatziki sauce, chicken marinade, and chop veggies 1-3 days ahead.
• Gluten-free Adaptations: Make sure your hummus is gluten-free.

Keyword Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Easy Dinner Recipe, meal prep ideas, Mediterranean dish