The tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken fills the air, mingling with earthy spices and fresh herbs. Imagine sinking your fork into a bowl brimming with colorful veggies, creamy sauce, and tender chicken; it’s a feast for the senses.
This Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a bustling Middle Eastern market. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself on a Wednesday night, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled chicken shawarma bowl is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor
- You can customize it with your favorite toppings for added variety
- Its vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece for any table
- Perfect for lunch meal prep or a satisfying dinner!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it in minutes and begged for the recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust based on your crowd size.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves provide that robust flavor which is essential in shawarma.
- Ground Cumin: This spice gives the dish its warm earthiness; don’t skimp on it!
- Ground Coriander: Adds a lovely citrusy note to balance the spices beautifully.
- Paprika: Opt for smoked paprika if you want an extra layer of flavor.
- Cumin Seeds: Toast them lightly before adding to enhance their flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish wonderfully.
- Fresh Vegetables (Cucumber, Tomatoes): Choose ripe vegetables for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Pita Bread or Rice: These serve as great bases for your shawarma bowl!
- Tahini Sauce or Yogurt Sauce: A creamy sauce brings everything together deliciously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by preparing your marinade for maximum flavor infusion.
Mixing the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma should be tantalizing!
Marinating the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight if you’re feeling fancy.
Grilling Time: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and charred beautifully.
Slicing the Chicken: Once cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F), remove from grill and let it rest for five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Assembling Your Bowl: Start with a base of rice or chopped pita bread then layer on sliced chicken along with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes. Drizzle generously with tahini sauce!
Enjoy every single bite of this vibrant Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl that packs both flavor and color!
You Must Know
- This Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a flavor explosion and perfect for meal prep
- The contrasting textures and vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes, while the spices create an aromatic experience that will impress everyone at your dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl, marinate the chicken first. While it absorbs those delicious flavors, prepare your grains and veggies for seamless assembly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also add spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, microwave until heated through, ensuring not to overcook and dry out the chicken.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for marinating; it enhances flavor and tenderness
- Always let your chicken rest after grilling; it locks in moisture
- Don’t skip on garnishes; fresh herbs and yogurt elevate every bite!
Sharing this Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl recipe at a potluck was a hit! Friends couldn’t stop asking for seconds, turning my kitchen into a culinary hotspot.
FAQ
What can I substitute for chicken in this bowl?
You can use tofu, chickpeas, or even shrimp as protein alternatives.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
What vegetables work best in a shawarma bowl?
Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and roasted bell peppers are great additions to enhance freshness.
Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl, featuring juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices—a perfect meal for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh vegetables (cucumber, tomatoes)
- Pita bread or rice
- Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F). Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Assemble your bowl with rice or pita bread as the base, topped with sliced chicken and fresh veggies. Drizzle with tahini sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
