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 lb chicken breast, cut into strips; 3 tablespoons plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup lettuce or mixed greens; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup tahini sauce (for drizzling); Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

I love creating meals that are both delicious and nourishing, and this Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl strikes that perfect balance. The combination of tender, spiced chicken with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing makes for a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bright and full of flavor. It’s a quick and wholesome meal that we can whip up during busy weeknights or serve at gatherings. Plus, the vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually appealing on the table!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:57:35.411Z

When I first attempted making shawarma at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was! By marinating the chicken in a mix of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, I've learned that it not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with incredible flavor. Cooking it on a skillet gives it a delicious char while keeping it juicy inside.

Assembling the bowl is the best part; I love layering the chicken with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of homemade tahini sauce. This dish is versatile too—I often add whatever greens I have on hand to make it even healthier!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold spices that create a savory depth of flavor
Customizable with your favorite fresh toppings
A healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste

Balancing the Flavors

The key to a fantastic chicken shawarma bowl lies in the balance of flavors between the marinated chicken and the fresh vegetables. The spices in the marinade—cumin, paprika, and turmeric—provide a rich, aromatic foundation, while the crunchiness of cucumber and the juiciness of cherry tomatoes create a refreshing contrast. The tahini sauce further enhances this balance, offering creaminess that complements rather than overwhelms the dish. Ensuring each ingredient is well-prepared allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a harmonious blend that excites the palate.

When marinating the chicken, aim for a minimum of 15 minutes, but if time allows, letting it sit for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator can greatly deepen the flavor. The yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a slight tang that plays well with the spices. I recommend using plain, full-fat yogurt for a richer taste, but if you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully too.

Ingredient Swaps and Storage

Customization is key when preparing your shawarma bowls! If you're out of chicken, consider swapping it for firm tofu or chickpeas; both options soak up flavors beautifully when marinated similarly. If quinoa or brown rice isn't on hand, feel free to use couscous or even a leafy green base like kale to keep it light and fresh. Make it your own by incorporating additional toppings like avocado, shredded carrots, or even nuts for an added crunch.

As for storage, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep. For optimal freshness, store the components separately until you're ready to eat. I recommend keeping the tahini sauce in a small container to avoid sogginess. To reheat the chicken, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until heated through without drying it out.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your shawarma bowl shine:

For the Chicken Shawarma:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl:

2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup lettuce or mixed greens
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup tahini sauce (for drizzling)
Lemon wedges for serving

Feel free to mix and match the ingredients in your bowl!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring your shawarma bowl to life:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and ensure they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.

Prepare the Bowls

In serving bowls, add a base of cooked quinoa or brown rice. Top with cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, lettuce, and red onion.

Drizzle and Serve

Finish with a generous drizzle of tahini sauce and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Enjoy your deliciously healthy chicken shawarma bowl!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinades or serve with a spicy harissa sauce on the side.

Cookware Tips

Using a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan can significantly improve your cooking experience when preparing the chicken. A well-heated pan allows for proper searing, creating a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside moist. To test if the skillet is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately for optimal cooking heat.

If you're looking for an even simpler approach, consider grilling the chicken instead. It gives a smoky flavor that can elevate your shawarma bowl. Preheat your grill on medium-high and cook the marinated chicken strips for about 4-6 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring juicy and tender results.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this bowl with lemon wedges is more than decorative—squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top adds a burst of acidity that brightens the entire dish. I love the zing it brings, enhancing the spices while bringing out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. You can also try sprinkling some chopped parsley or mint on top for a fresh herbal note or toasted sesame seeds for added texture.

For gatherings, consider setting up a shawarma bowl bar. Provide the marinated chicken, quinoa or rice, and a variety of toppings like pickled vegetables, olives, and roasted nuts, allowing guests to construct their own bowls. This interactive approach not only makes for a fun dining experience but also caters to diverse dietary preferences—everyone can create their ideal meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I meal prep this dish?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and keep the ingredients separate until you're ready to cook and assemble.

→ What should I serve with this bowl?

You can pair this bowl with pita bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.