Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Name: Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup sliced cucumber; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup pickled red onions; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup garlic yogurt sauce or tahini sauce

Highlighted under: World Flavors

I love making this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl at home because it brings a taste of the Middle East right to my kitchen. The layers of flavors from the marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce create a satisfying meal that feels both special and comforting. Preparing this bowl is straightforward, allowing me to enjoy a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a family favorite that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:36:36.148Z

When I first set out to recreate chicken shawarma at home, I experimented with various spices to capture the authentic flavors I love. After several tries, I found a blend that not only tastes great but also infuses the chicken with moisture and tenderness. The secret is to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. Using a simple grill pan and fresh veggies adds a vibrant crunch to the dish. I often prepare a quick garlic yogurt sauce to drizzle on top, enhancing the overall flavor. Trust me, this bowl is a delightful weeknight dinner option!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken that's easy to prepare.
Fresh and vibrant toppings add a crunch and color.
Customizable to suit your taste; add any veggies you love!

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is one of the crucial steps that elevate the flavor of this dish. The blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and coriander not only imparts a delicious taste but also helps to tenderize the chicken. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator can lead to an even richer flavor profile. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap to avoid contamination and ensure the spices meld well with the chicken.

Be sure to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for optimal juiciness and flavor. Unlike chicken breast, thighs maintain moisture during cooking, ensuring that they don’t dry out. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful of the cooking time; they will cook faster, around 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the marinated chicken in a grill pan gives it fabulous char marks and a smoky flavor that perfectly complements the Middle Eastern spices. Preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat; it should be hot enough that water droplets sizzle upon contact. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and that you achieve that desirable golden crust on the outside. If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular frying pan will work, but you may miss out on those lovely grill lines.

After cooking, allowing the chicken to rest is essential. This resting period lets the juices redistribute within the meat, making each bite incredibly tender and flavorful. Approximately 5 minutes should suffice. Slice against the grain to create tender strips that will be easy to eat and visually appealing in your bowl.

Assembling Your Bowls

When assembling your shawarma bowls, the order of layering impacts both presentation and flavor release. Start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa, which absorbs the delicious juices from the chicken. The texture of quinoa adds a nutty flavor, while rice can provide a heartier bite. Be generous with the chicken slices on top to make sure your bowl is both balanced and satisfying.

The addition of fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes not only adds color but also brings a refreshing crunch that balances the rich, warm flavors of the chicken. For an extra burst of acidity and tang, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the top. You can also customize your toppings with your favorite ingredients, such as avocados or roasted red peppers, to make the dish your own.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowls

4 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup sliced cucumber
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup pickled red onions
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1/2 cup garlic yogurt sauce or tahini sauce

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it.

Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, layer the cooked rice or quinoa first, followed by the sliced chicken. Top with cucumber, tomatoes, pickled onions, and parsley. Drizzle with garlic yogurt or tahini sauce.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade chicken shawarma bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the assembled bowl or some chili flakes on the chicken while cooking.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a great option for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and cook in batches for quick weekday lunches or dinners. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge—this will keep your toppings crisp and the chicken moist. The assembled bowls can stay fresh for up to three days, but for the best texture, it's recommended to add sauces just before serving.

If you're planning to freeze leftovers, ensure the chicken is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. For reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently in a pan over low heat to maintain moisture, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredient Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or marinated tofu. Season them similarly and grill or sauté until crispy to maintain that shawarma flavor profile. You can also experiment with different grains, such as farro or bulgur, for a hearty base that provides various textures and flavors.

For those following a low-carb diet, consider using cauliflower rice as the base for your bowl. It absorbs flavors well and provides a light, satisfying alternative. Additionally, you can switch the garlic yogurt sauce for a dairy-free tahini sauce to accommodate dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl by serving it with warm pita bread or using it as a filling for wraps. The combination of flavors from the chicken, fresh veggies, and sauce can create an irresistible wrap that’s easy to enjoy on the go. A sprinkle of feta cheese can add a creamy, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.

For an added touch, serve your bowls with a side of hummus for dipping or as a drizzle on your assembled bowl. Garnishing with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds can provide an extra layer of crunch and nutrition, turning your meal into not just a dinner but an experience everyone will savor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work, but they may be less juicy. Consider marinating them a bit longer.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty option.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Feel free to add any of your favorites like feta cheese, olives, or avocado for added flavor.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! You can prepare and store each component separately in the fridge for up to three days.