Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Name: Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup tahini sauce; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I love whipping up this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl when I crave bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The perfectly seasoned chicken, paired with fresh veggies and a creamy tahini sauce, makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable—swap in your favorite grains or veggies for a personal touch. When served warm, it truly brings a taste of the Middle East into my home, making it a meal I return to time and time again.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:57:36.166Z

When I first tried chicken shawarma at a local restaurant, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The blend of spices used in shawarma is irresistible, and I found that marinating the chicken overnight truly enhances the flavors. Cooking it on a skillet gives it that perfect char while keeping the meat juicy. I’ve discovered that adding a simple tahini sauce elevates the bowl, bringing creaminess that balances the spiciness of the chicken.

One time, I decided to take it up a notch by adding pickled vegetables alongside the fresh ones, and it was a hit! The acidity from the pickles complemented the rich shawarma spice wonderfully. By testing this combination, I learned how versatile this dish can be—for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead. This recipe is definitely a keeper!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent chicken marinated in a blend of authentic spices
Fresh vegetables add crunch and color in every bite
Creamy tahini sauce brings everything together perfectly

Perfectly Seasoned Chicken

The foundation of this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl lies in the marinated chicken thighs. Using bone-in, skinless thighs ensures the meat remains juicy and tender when cooked. The marinade infuses the chicken with deep, aromatic flavors while the olive oil helps prevent sticking during cooking. For best results, I recommend marinating the chicken for up to four hours in the refrigerator; however, if you’re pressed for time, even a quick 30-minute soak impacts the flavor positively.

Cooking temperature is crucial for achieving that desired golden exterior while keeping the inside perfectly cooked. Heat your skillet to medium-high, ensuring it's hot enough that the chicken sizzles upon contact. Cook it for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a rich golden-brown color and juices running clear. If your chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning the spices.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While traditional shawarma bowls utilize rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can make an excellent base. If you prefer something grain-free or lower in carbs, spiralized zucchini can provide a refreshing alternative. Feel free to experiment with a mix of grains or leafy greens, adapting based on what you have available.

Topping variations are endless! Roasted bell peppers, spicy pickles, or feta can elevate your bowl's flavors and textures. Not only do these add contrasting colors, but also enhance the overall taste experience. I often enjoy adding a handful of olives for a salty kick or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a sweet pop. Don’t hesitate to incorporate seasonal vegetables you love!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup tahini sauce
Lemon wedges for serving

Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by the sliced chicken. Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.

Drizzle with Tahini Sauce

Generously drizzle tahini sauce over the assembled bowls. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, sauté your veggies in the same skillet after cooking the chicken for a few minutes. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like feta cheese or olives for more Mediterranean flair.

Storage Tips

If you plan to make this Easy Chicken Shawarma Bowl in advance, store each component separately to maintain freshness. The marinated chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, ideal for meal prepping. Cooked grains and vegetables should also be stored separately to prevent sogginess, lasting about four days in the fridge.

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet for the chicken, allowing it to warm through while keeping its delicious texture. Add a splash of water to the pan to create steam, which helps keep the meat juicy. Grains can be microwaved with a little sprinkle of water to avoid drying out.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these bowls with a side of warm pita or flatbreads. They are perfect for scooping up the tahini sauce and vegetables, bringing an immersive Middle Eastern dining experience to your home. For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving the bowls with a sprinkle of sumac, which adds a tangy note and a lovely color.

If you're entertaining, you might consider creating a shawarma bowl bar, allowing guests to customize their bowls with a variety of toppings and sauces. This not only makes for an interactive dining experience but also accommodates different dietary preferences and restrictions easily.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but make sure not to overcook as they can dry out easily.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Pita bread, hummus, and a side salad pair excellently with the chicken shawarma bowl.