Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Chicken Shawarma Bowl

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Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delicious and colorful dish inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. It features juicy marinated chicken served over a bed of grains and topped with fresh veggies and a creamy sauce. This bowl is perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. You’ll love how tasty and hearty it is!

Why Make This Recipe

Making a Chicken Shawarma Bowl at home is easier than you think! You can control the ingredients, adjust the spices to your taste, and create a meal that’s both healthy and filling. It’s great for meal prep, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. Plus, who doesn’t love a tasty and vibrant bowl of goodness?

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 2 cups lettuce or mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley or mint
• Optional: pickled onions, feta, or olives
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Water, to thin
• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight for better flavor.
2. Cook Chicken: You can cook the chicken in different ways:
   • Stovetop: Sauté chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes on each side.
   • Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.
   • Grill: Cook on medium heat for 5–6 minutes on each side.
3. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Gradually add water until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
4. Build the Bowl: Start with a layer of the base grains, then add the cooked chicken and fresh veggies. Drizzle the sauce on top and sprinkle any optional toppings you like.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Serve the Chicken Shawarma Bowl warm. It’s great on its own, or you can add pita bread on the side for a heartier meal. The colorful layers make it appealing and fun to eat, so you can also enjoy it in a casual setting with family or friends.

How to Store Chicken Shawarma Bowl

To store leftovers, place the chicken and grains in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The veggies can be stored separately to keep them fresh. Enjoy the bowl within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Tips to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor.
• Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference.
• Use any grains you like, such as brown rice or quinoa, based on your dietary needs.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by swapping the chicken for roasted chickpeas or grilled vegetables. Serve with the same toppings for a filling meal!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well too! Just keep in mind it may cook a bit faster.

2. How can I make this dish spicy?
You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade or add some sliced jalapeños as a topping.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Just cook and assemble when you’re ready to eat.

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Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful Chicken Shawarma Bowl with your family and friends!