Hey there! If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with flavor and goodness, let me introduce you to my Chicken Shawarma Bowl! This meal is not just easy to make, but it’s also a delight for your taste buds. I love it because it’s versatile, and you can whip it up for lunch, dinner, or anytime you want a satisfying meal. The best part? You can customize it to suit whatever mood you’re in!
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Now let’s chat about the health benefits of this delicious dish! Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals. When you pair it with fresh veggies and whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, you’re adding fiber, antioxidants, and a whole load of nutrients! Plus, spices used in shawarma, like cumin and turmeric, can even have anti-inflammatory benefits. So, you’re not just eating well, but also nourishing your body in a delightful way!
Adaptable Variations for Your Shawarma Bowl
One of the reasons I adore this recipe so much is how easy it is to adapt! Here are some ideas:
- Swap the Protein: Can’t have chicken? No problem! You can easily use turkey, beef, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Ditch the Grains: Going low-carb? Use cauliflower rice or just load up on extra greens for a fantastic salad instead.
- Tweak the Dressing: Make it lighter with a yogurt-based sauce, or keep it dairy-free with tahini or a simple olive oil-lemon dressing.
Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: hummus or tzatziki sauce for serving
Instructions
- Start by marinating your chicken! In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken in this mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor!).
- While the chicken is marinating, you can cook your quinoa or rice according to package instructions, if not pre-cooked.
- Once marinated, heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice it into strips.
- To assemble your bowls, start with a base of quinoa or brown rice. Add sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of your favorite sauce, like hummus or tzatziki. Enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Meal prep made easy! You can make this bowl ahead of time and store the components separately in the fridge. Just assemble them when you’re ready to eat!
- If you have leftover chicken shawarma, it’s delicious in wraps or salads the next day!
- Try grilling the veggies along with chicken for an extra layer of flavor—zucchini and bell peppers work great!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Chicken Shawarma Bowl:
- A grill or non-stick skillet for cooking the chicken
- A bowl for the marinade
- A knife and cutting board for slicing your vegetables
- A pot or rice cooker for cooking quinoa or brown rice
- Measuring spoons for the spices and olive oil
- A serving bowl for assembling your delicious meal
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating, and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- How long can I store leftovers? You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I make this bowl vegan? Absolutely! Just swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and skip the yogurt sauce.
- Is shawarma served hot or cold? It can be enjoyed both ways! Serve it hot right after cooking or enjoy cold leftovers the next day.
- What can I serve with this bowl? Pita bread, olives, or a side salad pair wonderfully with this meal!
Did you try making this Chicken Shawarma Bowl? I’d genuinely love to hear how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen!
