Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. This recipe features tender chicken breast chunks seasoned with aromatic spices, paired with fresh veggies and fluffy quinoa. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this bowl is not only satisfying but also healthy, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how customizable it can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Shawarma Bowl comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious option that fits into any healthy eating plan.
• Flavorful Seasonings: The blend of Ras El Hanout and smoked paprika gives the chicken a rich depth of flavor that you’ll crave.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or grains to make this bowl uniquely yours.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Easily prepare components in advance for quick assembly throughout the week.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Shawarma Bowl, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Pot
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making it easier to sauté the chicken and onions.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Perfect for rinsing quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Pot: Used for cooking quinoa, allowing you to achieve fluffy grains every time.

Ingredients

Easy to make Chicken shawarma made with lean chicken breast chunks, seasonings, onions, and tossed in a bowl with salad and quinoa.

For the Chicken

• 3-4 chicken breasts boneless/skinless (cut into small bite-sized cubes)
• 1 tsp. Ras El Hanout seasoning (or shawarma seasoning see notes)
• 1 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• ¼ tsp Ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil divided
• 1 small white onion (sliced)

For the Quinoa Salad

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1.5 cups water
• 1 small red onion
• 1 small yellow bell pepper
• 3 garden cucumber (about 1 cup chopped)
• 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (different colors if desired)
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1-2 tbsp. fresh chopped curly parsley

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with Ras El Hanout (or shawarma seasoning), paprika, salt, and pepper. If using shawarma seasoning, do not add the paprika.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add oil and sliced white onion; sauté until translucent.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add chicken to the pan and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside on a plate. (This step can be made ahead.)

Step 4: Rinse Quinoa

Using a fine-mesh strainer, rinse the quinoa under cold running water. Rub and swish the quinoa with your hands while rinsing to remove its natural coating.

Step 5: Cook Quinoa

Drain the quinoa and place it into a pot. Add 1.5 cups of water along with about 2/3 tsp of kosher salt. Set heat to high. Boil until liquid is cooked off and ‘tails’ are visible, about 12-15 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Salad

While the quinoa cooks, chop the onion, bell pepper, cucumber, tomatoes, and parsley. Combine chopped onion, bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.

Step 7: Dress Salad

Add lemon juice, olive oil, a pinch of salt and ground pepper; toss well to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley and set aside.

Step 8: Fluff Quinoa

When the quinoa is done cooking, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool.

Step 9: Assemble Bowls

For serving, add quinoa to each bowl. Top each serving with chicken shawarma and add salad next to it before serving.

Step 10: Optional Finishing Touch

Drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the chicken shawarma for added flavor!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Serving your Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures. You can customize each bowl to suit individual tastes, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Customize with Fresh Greens

• Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach for an extra crunch and vibrant color.
• Arugula: Use peppery arugula to enhance the flavor profile of your bowl.

Include Creamy Dressings

• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce that pairs wonderfully with chicken shawarma.
• Tahini Dressing: Drizzle tahini for a nutty richness that complements the spices.

Add More Proteins

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
• Chickpeas: Toss in some roasted chickpeas for added protein and texture.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint can bring a cooling effect, balancing the warm spices perfectly.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro will add freshness and a burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Creating the perfect Chicken Shawarma Bowl requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Chicken: Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to enhance its taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until golden brown but ensure it remains juicy; overcooking can dry it out.
• Rinse Quinoa Thoroughly: Properly rinsing quinoa removes bitterness, resulting in a more pleasant taste.
• Let Quinoa Cool Before Serving: Allowing quinoa to cool prevents wilting your fresh salad ingredients when combined.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or avocados for additional nutrition and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Enhancing your meal with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Hummus: A creamy chickpea dip that adds richness—perfect with pita bread or veggie sticks.
2. Pita Bread: Warm pita acts as a great scoop for chicken shawarma and salad components.
3. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley and bulgur salad that brings zesty notes alongside your bowl.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned vegetables like zucchini or eggplant provide depth and flavor contrast.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add a burst of acidity that complements the savory elements of the bowl.
6. Mediterranean Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes a lovely base under your chicken shawarma.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes and tips to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly will result in bland flavor. Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly with spices.
• Overcooking quinoa: Overcooked quinoa can become mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and fluff it gently once it’s done.
• Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor and quality. Check expiry dates on spices and produce before using them.
• Not letting chicken rest: Allowing cooked chicken to sit for a few minutes helps retain its juices. This step enhances the dish’s overall taste.
• Ignoring customizations: Don’t hesitate to adapt the recipe to your taste by adding different vegetables or toppings. Personal touches make it unique.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep chicken and salad separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Label the containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Chicken Shawarma Bowl.

What is a Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

A Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delicious meal featuring seasoned chicken served with quinoa and fresh vegetables, creating a balanced dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Can I use different proteins in my Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option while maintaining similar flavors.

How can I customize my Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like feta cheese, avocado, or more spices. Each addition can enhance flavors and textures!

Is this Chicken Shawarma Bowl healthy?

Yes! This recipe includes lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh vegetables making it a nutritious choice suitable for various diets.

Can I meal prep this Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping as it stores well and retains its flavors when reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. It allows you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to create your own delightful version!