Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Name: Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 small red onion, sliced; 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1/2 cup tahini or garlic sauce

Highlighted under: World Flavors

I love a good Chicken Shawarma Bowl, and this recipe makes it incredibly easy to prepare at home. With its blend of warm spices and fresh toppings, this dish is a delightful escape from the mundane. The best part? It’s customizable to suit any palate. Whether I'm enjoying it for lunch during a busy workday or serving it for dinner with friends, this bowl always brings smiles. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:40:37.761Z

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to bring the flavors of the Middle East into my kitchen with a Chicken Shawarma Bowl. The combination of marinated chicken, spiced veggies, and refreshing toppings is one I can't resist. I found that letting the chicken marinate overnight truly enhances the flavor, so it's worth planning ahead. Plus, serving it in a bowl allows for a colorful and appealing presentation that makes dinner feel special.

Each time I make this recipe, I experiment with different toppings and sauces, and I encourage you to do the same! A drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds adds an extra layer of flavor. It's all about creating a bowl that you love, and after perfecting my version, I'm excited to share it with you. Trust me, this meal is a real crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with aromatic spices that awaken your taste buds
Fresh and colorful toppings for a nutritious boost
Perfect for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the best flavor and tenderness in your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs are generally more juicy and often have a richer flavor, making them perfect for absorbing the spices in the marinade. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out more easily.

Preparing chicken for marinating requires some attention to detail. Make sure to trim any excess fat or sinew from the thighs; this not only improves the final dish's texture but also helps the marinade penetrate the meat more effectively. For the best results, let the chicken marinate longer than the minimum time—overnight is ideal. This allows the spices to fully infuse the meat.

Layering Flavor and Texture

As you assemble your Shawarma Bowl, consider the texture contrasts that will enhance the dish. The warm, spiced chicken pairs beautifully with the crisp freshness of the vegetables. Layering is key; I like to place the chicken on top of the grains, followed by fresh veggies. This not only looks appealing but also warms the veggies slightly without wilting them, keeping their crunch and color vibrant.

The choice of toppings can significantly alter the bowl's overall experience. If you’re in the mood for something different, try adding roasted bell peppers or crunchy radishes for an additional layer of flavor. Using the right sauce is also crucial; tahini balances the warm spices with its nutty richness, while a garlic sauce adds a zesty kick.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 small red onion, sliced
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup tahini or garlic sauce

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until completely cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle with tahini or garlic sauce.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also use a combination of chicken and veggies to make it even more colorful and nutritious.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. After marinating, cook a larger batch of chicken, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can easily reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, just until warmed through, which will take about 3-4 minutes.

For the grains, consider making a double batch of rice or quinoa since they hold up well in the fridge and can be used in various meals throughout the week. Store the cooked grains separately from the chicken and toppings to keep everything fresh. The fresh vegetables should be added right before serving to retain their crispness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Shawarma Bowl experience, serve it with warm pita bread or crispy pita chips on the side. Adding a side of pickled vegetables can introduce a tangy contrast that complements the dish beautifully. If you enjoy some spice, top the bowl with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa for a fiery touch.

For a vegetarian variation, swap the chicken for marinated chickpeas or roasted cauliflower. Keep the marinade ingredients similar; they work wonderfully with either substitute. Additionally, you can enhance the bowl by adding crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick or avocado for creaminess, making the dish even more fulfilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with falafel or grilled halloumi for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the sauce separate until serving.

→ What else can I add to my bowl?

Feel free to add additional toppings like olives, feta cheese, or even roasted vegetables for extra flavor!