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; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp ground turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup hummus; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavors

I absolutely love making this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl because it combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. The marinated chicken is juicy and tender, and it’s so easy to prepare right at home. With a mix of spices, lemon juice, and a quick grill, I can whip up a meal that’s both healthy and packed with flavor. The best part is that I can customize the bowl with my favorite toppings, making it a satisfying dish any night of the week.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:37.142Z

When I first tried making chicken shawarma at home, I was amazed by how simple it was to get that authentic Middle Eastern flavor. I experimented with various spice blends, finally landing on a combination that really brings out the best in the chicken. The trick is to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; it makes a world of difference in ensuring the meat is tender and flavorful!

As I served this dish for the first time at a family gathering, everyone raved about the flavors. I love assembling the bowls with fresh veggies and hearty grains, making it not only delicious but also colorful. It’s perfect for meal prep, and I often find myself craving it during the week!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy, marinated chicken bursting with flavor
Fresh vegetables that add a delightful crunch
Quick and easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Perfect for meal prep and family dinners

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended due to their higher fat content, which keeps the meat moist while cooking. If you're looking for a leaner option, chicken breast can be used but be aware that it may dry out if overcooked. Aim for a temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked while remaining tender.

A key step in achieving great flavor is marinating the chicken long enough. While 30 minutes is sufficient, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight can enhance the flavor significantly. As the chicken absorbs the marinade, the spices infuse deeper, resulting in a more flavorful bite. Always cover and refrigerate to prevent any contamination.

Perfecting the Bowl Assembly

When assembling your bowls, consider using a base of cooked rice or quinoa that has been lightly seasoned with salt and a drizzle of olive oil. This adds an extra layer of flavor to compliment the marinated chicken. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa not only serves as a great base but also adds additional protein to the meal.

Be mindful of how you slice your chicken when adding it to the bowls. Cutting the chicken against the grain results in slices that are easier to chew and more tender in texture. After slicing, arrange the chicken on top of the bowl ingredients rather than mixing them all together, allowing for a visually appealing presentation and enabling diners to customize each bite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup hummus
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken thighs, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice or quinoa among bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded lettuce. Add a dollop of hummus and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, serve with tzatziki sauce or a drizzle of tahini.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can store marinated chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.

For the assembled bowl, it’s best to keep the components separate if you're preparing them ahead of time. Store the rice or quinoa, veggies, and hummus in separate containers. This prevents the salad from wilting and keeps everything fresh for your meal. Assemble just before serving by layering the ingredients to give the bowl a fresh look.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to get creative with toppings! Try adding pickled red onions for a tangy crunch or feta cheese for a creamy contrast. If you love heat, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of za'atar can bring a delightful spice element to the dish. Experimenting with flavors enhances your shawarma experience, making each bowl uniquely yours.

If you're vegetarian or vegan, consider substituting chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas. Tofu can absorb the marinade beautifully, and chickpeas provide a satisfying texture. Roast or grill them until golden, and use the same toppings and bases to keep that shawarma bowl essence while catering to different dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier. If using breast, be careful not to overcook them.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before cooking.