Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a flavorful, well-balanced meal inspired by the beloved Middle Eastern street food classic. Traditionally, shawarma is made by stacking marinated meat on a vertical rotisserie and shaving it as it cooks. This bowl-style version captures those same warm, aromatic spices and juicy textures but adapts them for easy home cooking. Tender, spiced chicken is paired with fluffy rice or grains, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces to create a satisfying and colorful bowl.

What makes the Chicken Shawarma Bowl so special is its contrast of flavors and textures. The deeply seasoned chicken offers bold warmth from spices like cumin, paprika, and coriander, while cool toppings such as yogurt-based sauce and fresh vegetables provide balance and freshness. It’s a complete meal that feels hearty yet light, making it perfect for both lunch and dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple, accessible ingredients. The marinade transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special, and the bowl format allows for endless customization. It’s also ideal for meal prep, as every component holds up well and tastes even better as the flavors settle.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it brings global flavors into your kitchen in an approachable way. It’s nutritious, filling, and incredibly versatile. If you enjoy bold spices, balanced meals, and dishes that can be tailored to personal taste, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl is one you shouldn’t miss.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 8 hours
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes plus marinating
Servings: 4 bowls

Calories: Approximately 540 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern–Inspired

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast
Plain yogurt
Olive oil
Garlic cloves minced
Lemon juice

Shawarma Spices:
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Paprika
Turmeric
Cinnamon
Allspice
Salt
Black pepper

For the Bowl Base:
Cooked basmati rice or quinoa
Chopped romaine lettuce

For Toppings and Sauce:
Cherry tomatoes halved
Cucumber diced
Red onion thinly sliced
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce

Cooking Directions

Marinate the chicken in yogurt, spices, and aromatics, cook until golden and juicy, then assemble in bowls with rice, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and all shawarma spices.
Step 2: Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat with a little oil.
Step 4: Cook the marinated chicken until browned and fully cooked, turning occasionally.
Step 5: Remove chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 6: Slice the chicken into thin strips.
Step 7: Prepare the bowl base by portioning rice or quinoa and lettuce into bowls.
Step 8: Top with sliced chicken, vegetables, and sauce.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

Save it

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the Chicken Shawarma Bowl warm, with the chicken freshly sliced and layered over rice and vegetables. Drizzle generously with tahini or garlic yogurt sauce. This dish can be served as a complete meal on its own or paired with pita bread or hummus on the side.

Recipe Tips

Tip: Chicken thighs provide juicier results and more authentic flavor.
Tip: Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain moisture.
Tip: Marinating longer enhances the depth of flavor.
Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best results.

Variations

Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or extra salad greens.
Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with roasted chickpeas, tofu, or cauliflower.
Mediterranean Grain Version: Use couscous or bulgur instead of rice.
Wrap Style Version: Serve the same components wrapped in warm pita bread.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store cooked chicken and other components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: The cooked shawarma chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling bowls.

Special Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Skillet or grill pan
Cutting board and knife
Measuring spoons
Tongs or spatula

Conclusion

The Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine into an easy, home-cooked format. With its bold spices, fresh toppings, and creamy sauce, it offers a perfect balance of comfort and freshness. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen rotation.