Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Name: Easy Healthy 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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 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; 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens; Tahini sauce for drizzling; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Naturally Nourishing

I love creating healthy meals that are packed with flavor, and this Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is one of my favorites. It's quick to prepare and makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The blend of spices gives the chicken a deliciously aromatic flavor, while the freshness of vegetables adds a nice crunch. This bowl is so versatile that you can customize it with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:09:35.051Z

Making this Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl was a delightful experience. I experimented with various spice blends, and I found that using a mix of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder really elevates the chicken. Marinating the chicken for just a little while can make a world of difference, enhancing the flavors immensely. In fact, I've often prepped the chicken a day in advance to save time!

Assembling the bowl is the fun part! I’ve learned to layer the ingredients carefully; starting with a base of quinoa or brown rice, adding the marinated chicken, and finishing with crisp vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce. It’s visually appealing and truly satisfying to eat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavor-packed and healthy with vibrant spices
A quick, one-bowl meal perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable to suit your dietary preferences

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances its flavor. By allowing the chicken thighs to soak in the olive oil and spice blend for at least 15 minutes, you ensure that each bite is infused with aromatic notes. For even greater flavor depth, consider marinating the chicken overnight. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes a significant difference in taste, especially with the warmth of the spices like cumin and paprika melding beautifully into the meat.

When marinating, ensure the chicken is fully coated in the spice mixture for the best results. You can also use a resealable bag for easy mixing and to save on cleanup. If you prefer less spice, feel free to reduce the amount of paprika or cumin. Remember to taste the marinade before adding the chicken to adjust the seasoning as necessary—this pre-cooking step can set the stage for a flavorful dish.

Cooking Technique

Cooking the chicken evenly is essential for achieving that perfect golden brown exterior while keeping the interior juicy. Start by preheating the skillet over medium heat; this allows the chicken to sear nicely without burning. When adding the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. If you're using a batch larger than one pound, consider cooking it in two separate rounds to maintain that crispy texture.

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting phase allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, preventing dryness. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. I suggest using a meat thermometer to be precise, ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked and ready to slice into tender strips that will complement the freshness of the bowl's other ingredients.

Serving and Customization Ideas

Assembling the bowl is the final touch where you can let your creativity shine. Start with a warm base of quinoa or brown rice for added nutrients, followed by the freshly sliced chicken. The arrangement is not only visually appealing, but it also allows your guests to mix flavors as they eat. You can double the vegetables if you want a more substantial serving, or try adding ingredients like roasted red peppers, avocado, or even chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.

For an extra kick, consider including pickled vegetables alongside your fresh ones for a tangy contrast. If you're looking for dietary swaps, feel free to substitute the tahini sauce with Greek yogurt or a vegan yogurt alternative. To make meal prep easier, store each component separately in airtight containers, and simply combine them when ready to eat. This setup keeps the ingredients fresh and flavorful, perfect for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl:

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
Tahini sauce for drizzling
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for more flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, start with a base of quinoa or brown rice. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and spinach. Drizzle with tahini sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy chicken shawarma bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding pickled vegetables or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving. This dish also makes great leftovers, perfect for meal prep during chaotic weeks!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the chicken and veggies in separate containers to avoid sogginess. The chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, while the veggies can remain fresh for slightly less time. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat to ensure even warming without drying out the chicken, which will help retain its juiciness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking it. Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it will keep for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. This is a great way to have flavorful chicken ready for a quick meal without sacrificing quality.

Variations of the Recipe

Feel free to experiment with different spices in the marinade. For instance, adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper can add unique flavor notes to the chicken. Similarly, you can replace the quinoa or brown rice with other grains like farro or barley, depending on your taste preferences and dietary needs. Each grain offers varying textures and flavors, making the bowl entirely your own.

You can also look into adding seasonal veggies, like roasted squash in the fall or grilled asparagus in the spring, to keep the dish fresh and exciting. Different sauces such as tzatziki or a simple lemon-herb vinaigrette can change the flavor profile significantly. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—experiment with what you have on hand to make it your signature dish.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your chicken is dry after cooking, the likely cause is overcooking. Always aim for the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and if possible, use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, letting it rest after cooking is vital, as it ensures the juices remain trapped in the meat, enhancing flavor and moisture.

For an unbalanced flavor, you can fix this by adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the assembled bowl for acidity or a sprinkle of salt to brighten the flavors. If you're finding the tahini sauce too thick, mix in a bit of water or lemon juice to reach your desired consistency. Keeping a close eye on your seasoning and adjusting as you go will help attain that perfect taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it might be a little less juicy. Make sure not to overcook it!

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and follow the same marinating and cooking process.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this bowl?

You can freeze the chicken separately, but it's best to keep fresh vegetables and grains separate until ready to serve.