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 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh parsley for garnish; Tahini or yogurt sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Collection

I love creating quick and flavorful meals, and this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is one of my favorites. The tender chicken marinated in spices, paired with vibrant and fresh vegetables, makes for a wholesome meal that my whole family enjoys. What I love most is how easy it is to customize each bowl according to our preferences. Whether you're a spice lover or prefer a milder dish, it's a satisfying and nourishing dinner option that comes together in no time.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:37:36.217Z

When I first attempted chicken shawarma at home, I was amazed at how simple the process actually is. The secret lies in the marinade, which is a delightful blend of spices that infuse the chicken with incredible flavor. I found that marinating for just 30 minutes makes a huge difference, as the spices penetrate the meat without needing to fuss over complex cooking methods.

One of the best parts of this dish is how versatile it is. For instance, I like adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint on top for an extra pop of flavor. You can also adjust the toppings according to what you have on hand! I’ve tried mixing in chickpeas or swapping out the veggies, and each variation has been a hit.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy and fragrant chicken that packs a punch
Fresh vegetables brighten up the bowl
Easy to customize for various tastes
Wholesome ingredients mean less guilt!

Perfectly Marinated Chicken

The key to achieving flavorful chicken in this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl lies in the marinade. Each ingredient serves a specific purpose: the olive oil helps to tenderize the meat while adding richness, the lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, and the spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric—infuse warmth and depth. For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken for one to two hours, or even overnight if time permits. Just be sure not to marinate it for too long, as the acidity from the lemon can start to break down the protein and affect the texture.

When cooking, a high heat is essential to achieve that desirable grilled flavor and noticeable char on the chicken. My preferred method is to use a cast-iron skillet for an indoor option, as it retains heat beautifully and creates a nice sear. Alternatively, grilling outdoors will give you that smoky flavor that’s characteristic of shawarma. Remember to allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, preventing dryness when you slice it.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While I enjoy the suggested toppings, feel free to get creative! For a milder flavor, swap out the red onion for sweet onion or omit it altogether. You can also add grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the dish’s nutritional value while enhancing its flavor and texture. Always consider incorporating seasonal ingredients; fresh herbs or fruits can brighten your dish with vibrant color and taste.

If you're looking for a lower-carbohydrate alternative, quinoa works fabulously in this bowl, but you could also consider an even lighter base, like cauliflower rice. This option not only adds a unique flavor but also significantly lowers the carb count, aligning with many dietary preferences. Additionally, if you're preparing meals for the week, feel free to store each component separately in air-tight containers to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is as satisfying on its own as it is when paired with side dishes. A refreshing tabbouleh salad can add a fresh, zesty element, while pita bread or flatbreads can be served for a more traditional Middle Eastern experience. If you're feeling indulgent, a side of crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with sumac or garlic can elevate the meal further, providing both comfort and flavor.

Leftovers can be creatively repurposed as well—try the marinaded chicken in a wrap for lunch the next day, or on a bed of greens for an easy salad. Keep in mind that the components of the bowl can be prepared ahead and stored separately in the fridge for up to three days, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious meal multiple times without the hassle of cooking each time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
½ red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish
Tahini or yogurt sauce (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large serving bowl, form a base with rice or quinoa. Layer the sliced chicken on top, followed by cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red cabbage, and red onion. Drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce if desired.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken over charcoal. If you're short on time, you can also use store-bought rotisserie chicken as a shortcut.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself without certain spices, don’t stress. For instance, if you don’t have smoked paprika, gourmet paprika will work as a substitute, though you may miss the smokiness. Additionally, cumin and coriander are best fresh, but ground versions will suffice in a pinch. For those avoiding chicken, swapping in firm tofu or chickpeas can provide a protein-packed alternative while guaranteeing the shawarma spices still shine through.

To make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets, simply ensure that the tahini or yogurt sauce doesn’t contain additives that would introduce gluten. Keeping it simple with fresh lemon juice and herbs can create a vibrant dressing without the worry of gluten.

Make Ahead Tips

For those with busy schedules, meal prepping this dish can save time during the week. Marinate the chicken in advance, even overnight, and store it in the fridge. The rice or quinoa can be cooked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container, making assembly a breeze on serving day. The veggies can also be prepped and cut a day ahead; just store them in the fridge until you are ready to assemble.

If you want to go one step further, consider making a double batch of the chicken for an easy second meal later in the week. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days and can also be frozen for up to three months. This way, you have a deliciously spiced option ready whenever you need a quick meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used but may require a little less cooking time as it's leaner.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve with this bowl?

You can serve it with flatbreads or pita, as well as extra sauces like tzatziki or hot sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.