Craving a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and healthy? My Chicken Shawarma Bowls are the answer! 🌯🍗 This recipe brings all the bold, spicy flavors of shawarma right to your kitchen, minus the long wait at a restaurant. The juicy chicken is marinated with garlic, spices, and herbs, then cooked to perfection and served on a bed of rice with fresh veggies, creamy hummus, and tangy tzatziki sauce. My kids love assembling their own bowls, and it’s always a hit at family dinners!

What’s even better? This dish is totally customizable, so you can load it up with your favorite toppings, making it the perfect meal for anyone to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Shawarma Bowls

These bowls are a flavor-packed journey with every bite! The spiced chicken is super tender and full of Middle Eastern flavors, while the fresh veggies and creamy sauces balance everything out perfectly. It’s like having a gourmet meal in a bowl—easy to make, packed with flavor, and full of goodness. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty, yet healthy meal that you can adjust to your taste!

What You’ll Need to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowls

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
1 cucumber, diced
1 tomato, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup hummus
1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving

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How to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and browned on the outside. You can also grill the chicken for extra flavor! Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Assemble the bowls: Start by adding a scoop of cooked rice to the bottom of each bowl. Top with a generous portion of sliced chicken, diced cucumber, tomato, and onion. Add a dollop of hummus and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Serve: Serve the bowls as they are or let everyone customize their own with extra toppings. Enjoy!

Fun Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding roasted vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to your shawarma bowls. You can also swap the rice for quinoa or couscous for a different base. For a spicy kick, drizzle some hot sauce or add a few slices of jalapeños on top!

How to Make It Healthier

If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, you can swap the rice for cauliflower rice to cut back on carbs. You can also use grilled chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner protein. For a dairy-free option, swap the tzatziki for a dairy-free yogurt sauce or hummus. And to keep it even healthier, try using a little less olive oil in the marinade and sauce.

Ideal for Meal Prep or Family Dinners

Chicken Shawarma Bowls are great for meal prepping! You can marinate and cook the chicken in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls just before serving, or store the components separately to mix and match throughout the week. They’re perfect for quick lunches or satisfying dinners!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breast! It will be leaner, but still delicious. Just keep in mind that chicken thighs will stay juicier and more tender with this marinade.
Can I make the shawarma chicken ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day, or even cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
Can I use store-bought tzatziki and hummus?
Yes, store-bought versions are perfect for saving time. Just be sure to choose ones you love for the best flavor! If you have time, homemade versions will add an extra touch of freshness.
What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Some great additions include olives, feta cheese, pickled onions, or a handful of arugula for a peppery crunch.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the chicken for roasted or grilled vegetables like cauliflower, sweet potato, or chickpeas. It’ll still be packed with flavor and nutrients!