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Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Irresistible Chicken Shawarma Bowl for Healthy Meal Prep

This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a flavor-packed meal prep option that's customizable, gluten-free, and easy to prepare.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs offer more flavor and tenderness.
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and richness.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens flavors with acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons Plain Yogurt For marinade; use dairy-free yogurt if needed.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Ground Cumin Essential for authentic shawarma flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Ground Coriander Contributes to the aromatic spice blend.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Smoked Paprika Adds a depth of flavor typical in shawarma.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Enhances color and earthiness; optional.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Brings warmth to the dish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder For additional garlic flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust for desired heat level; optional.
  • Salt & Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Base
  • 2 cups Cooked Jasmine or Basmati Rice Use as the foundation or substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Cucumber Diced; adds crunch and freshness.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; provides juicy bursts of flavor.
  • 0.5 Red Onion Thinly sliced; adds sharpness and color.
  • 1 cup Lettuce or Mixed Greens Contributes nutrient diversity and bulk.
  • Fresh Herbs Chopped parsley or mint.
Optional Toppings
  • Pickled Onions Brings a tangy kick.
  • Turkey Ham Strips Adds an extra protein option.
  • Olives For a salty punch.
  • Crumbled Feta Lends a creamy texture.
  • Lemon Wedges Serve for added brightness.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Fork

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and plain yogurt along with the spices. Coat the chicken well in this marinade, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
  2. Make Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well and refrigerate.
  3. Cook Rice: Rinse and cook jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions, typically taking 15-20 minutes. Fluff the rice and keep warm.
  4. Prep Vegetables: Wash and chop the vegetables, arranging them in individual serving bowls.
  5. Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated chicken, and sauté until golden brown and cooked through. Rest before slicing.
  6. Assemble Bowls: Distribute the rice into bowls, top with sliced chicken and fresh vegetables, drizzle with yogurt sauce, and sprinkle with herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is customizable; feel free to substitute chicken for lamb, beef, or tofu as desired.

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