The aroma of spices wafts through your kitchen as you imagine the juicy pieces of grilled chicken nestled on a colorful bed of fresh veggies. Each bite promises an explosion of flavor that dances on your palate, making it the ultimate comfort food. You can almost hear the sizzle as the chicken hits the grill—who knew healthy eating could be this enticing?
Remember those family gatherings where everyone bombarded the table with their favorite dishes? This Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl was always a star player, stealing hearts and appetites alike. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just craving something deliciously different for dinner, this bowl is your ticket to flavor town!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its bold flavors will transport your taste buds straight to the Middle East
- With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s as eye-catching as it is delicious
- Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for lunch meal prep or a light dinner!
Nothing beats hearing my friends rave about how they devoured every last bite of this dish at our potluck.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness and flavor; they won’t dry out like breasts tend to.
- Plain Yogurt: Use full-fat yogurt for creaminess; it helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves pack a punch; choose firm ones for maximum flavor.
- Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth; opt for freshly ground if possible.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika gives depth; I can’t resist its rich flavor in this recipe.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it brightens up all those savory notes.
- Fresh Vegetables: Use cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion for crunch and color in your bowl.
- Rice or Quinoa: They serve as the hearty base; choose whichever you prefer.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley/Cilantro): A handful adds freshness and vibrancy to each serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Marinate the Chicken: Start by mixing yogurt, garlic, cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and ensure they’re fully coated before letting them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare Your Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to broil mode. Make sure everything is ready before cooking so you don’t lose any precious time.
Grill the Chicken: Place marinated chicken on the grill. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until they get nice grill marks and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let It Rest Before Slicing: Once cooked through, remove chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute so you won’t end up with dry chicken.
Assemble Your Bowls: In bowls, layer rice or quinoa first; then add sliced grilled chicken on top. Next comes your fresh vegetables followed by herbs.
Add Toppings & Serve!: Drizzle with tahini sauce or a dollop of hummus if desired. Invite friends over and watch them dive into their bowls with joy!
This dish comes together quickly with vibrant flavors that promise satisfaction in every bite!
You Must Know
- The grilled chicken shawarma bowl is not just delicious; it’s vibrant and customizable!
- Experiment with veggies, sauces, or grains
- The blend of spices creates an aromatic experience that makes your kitchen feel like a Middle Eastern bazaar
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Grill it until golden brown and juicy. While it cooks, prepare your bowls with fresh veggies and sauces.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or beef. Use different grains like quinoa or rice for variety. Top with extra herbs or a drizzle of tahini sauce!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness and flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Grilling at high heat gives your chicken those beautiful char marks; don’t skip this step!
- Let the chicken rest before slicing so juices redistribute and remain flavorful
- Always taste your sauce before serving; you might want a little extra zing!
Creating this dish reminds me of a family barbecue where everyone savored every bite, asking for seconds and thirds! It’s great to see loved ones enjoying something I made with passion.
FAQ
What spices are essential for grilled chicken shawarma?
Use cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, and cinnamon for authentic flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
What side dishes pair well with a shawarma bowl?
Serve with hummus, tabbouleh, or pita bread to elevate your meal experience.
Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of this Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl, featuring juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion)
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken by mixing yogurt, garlic, cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken thighs thoroughly and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or set the oven to broil.
- Grill marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Assemble bowls with rice or quinoa as the base, topped with sliced grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and herbs.
- Optionally drizzle with tahini sauce or add a dollop of hummus before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (400g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
