These Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a tasty way to enjoy Middle Eastern flavors. Juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce all come together in a bowl of goodness!
Plus, it’s super easy to make! I love to add my favorite toppings and enjoy it with friends. Who knew eating healthy could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and absorb flavors well. You could also use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Spices: The combination of cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and coriander gives this dish its signature shawarma flavor. If you don’t have all of these, feel free to mix in some shawarma spice blend or just use cumin and paprika for a simpler taste.
Rice or Bulgur: Brown rice is hearty and nutritious, but you can substitute it with quinoa for a gluten-free option. Bulgur is traditional and adds a nutty flavor. Both work beautifully!
Yogurt Sauce: Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, perfect for this sauce. To make it dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or a cashew-based cream. Adjust the garlic and dill according to your taste.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with the right techniques, it can be delicious and moist. Here’s how you can get it just right:
- Start with medium heat on your grill or skillet to avoid burning the spices while cooking.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check if it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time, ready to enjoy in your shawarma bowls!
Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or bulgur
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped (romaine or similar)
- Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
Yogurt Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Estimate
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking, making a total of approximately 30-35 minutes. A quick and healthy meal option that’s perfect any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend will bring delicious flavor to the chicken.
2. Spice the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil to ensure they stay moist during cooking. Then, coat them well with the spice mixture, making sure every part is flavored.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they’re cooked through and have a lovely brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 75°C). After cooking, let the chicken rest on a plate for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
4. Make the Yogurt Sauce:
While the chicken rests, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
5. Slice the Chicken:
After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips. You can also shred them with a fork if you prefer that texture.
6. Assemble Your Bowls:
In each serving bowl, start by adding a scoop of brown rice or bulgur at the bottom. Then, artfully arrange the lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and diced red onion around the rice.
7. Add the Chicken and Sauce:
Place the sliced chicken in the center of the bowl. Drizzle generously with the dill yogurt sauce for a creamy finish.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, sprinkle some extra fresh dill over the top if you’d like a pop of color and flavor. Serve your Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowls immediately and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Enjoy your vibrant and healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowls, bursting with tasty Middle Eastern spices and fresh veggies!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking! Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or using a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water to ensure even cooking.
Can I Prepare the Bowls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate and cook the chicken in advance, as well as prepare the yogurt sauce. Just store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, assemble the bowls with fresh veggies and rice.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the yogurt sauce separate from the other ingredients to maintain freshness. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or even marinated tofu. Use the same spice mix to keep that delicious shawarma flavor in your vegetarian version!
