Go Back
–+ servings
Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Delicious Chicken Shawarma Bowl for Quick Weeknight Dinners

This Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a flavorful journey with tender, spiced chicken, bright veggies, and luscious tahini sauce—a perfect weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken breast Can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Can use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Spices like coriander can be mixed for variation.
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika Smoked paprika can add a different flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric Not essential if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander Cayenne can be added for extra heat.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used instead, adjusting quantity to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Can omit if fresh onions are used.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Essential for traditional shawarma flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper Optional, for spice; adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Can be replaced with lemon pepper for a twist.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Fresh lemon juice is preferred for flavor.
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt Substitute with a dairy-free alternative if desired.
  • ¼ cup tahini Can use nut butter as a substitute.
For the Bowl
  • 2 cups cooked rice Can use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber Omit if unavailable, use another veggie.
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes Can substitute with diced bell peppers.
  • ½ cup red onion Adds sharpness; can use sweet onions for a milder taste.
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley Cilantro can be a substitute for a different flavor.
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro Adds a distinct flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds Optional for garnish and sweetness.
For Drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Use flavored oils for added depth.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice For brightness in the finished dish.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
  2. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips for even cooking.
  3. Combine the spices with one tablespoon of olive oil to create a thick paste.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice paste.
  5. Cook the spiced chicken in a single layer in the hot skillet for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Whisk together lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and tahini in a small bowl until smooth.
  7. Combine cooked rice, chopped cucumber, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a large bowl.
  8. Drizzle the vegetable mixture with olive oil and lemon juice, toss to coat.
  9. Assemble Chicken Shawarma Bowls with flavored rice, veggie mixture, and cooked chicken.
  10. Drizzle the sauce over the bowls and garnish with pomegranate seeds and herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 36gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For meal prepping, store tahini sauce on the side to preserve its creamy texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!