These Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowls are tasty and colorful! They feature juicy rotisserie chicken, fresh veggies, and a yummy sauce, all packed into one bowl for easy enjoyment.
Who doesn’t love a bowl that has it all? I love switching things up with my favorite toppings—sometimes I even add a sprinkle of feta cheese! It’s like a flavor party!
Making these bowls is super easy! Just toss everything together, and you’re set for a tasty meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. If you’re looking for a quicker option, try using rotisserie chicken. It’s pre-cooked and adds that hearty flavor without the extra work.
Spices: The combination of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon gives this dish its signature flavor. If you don’t have all the spices, consider using a pre-mixed shawarma spice blend or taco seasoning as a shortcut.
Quinoa or Brown Rice: Quinoa is high in protein and works well in this bowl, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice can be great substitutes for a low-carb option. Choose what you enjoy the most!
Tzatziki Sauce: If you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki is a quick option. However, homemade is often fresher. You can also make it dairy-free by using coconut yogurt.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but follow these steps to keep it juicy and packed with flavor:
- Make sure to let the spice mix coat the chicken evenly for the best flavor.
- Cook the chicken over medium heat to avoid burning the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Let it rest after cooking! This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist when you slice it.
Why Should I Roast My Cauliflower?
Roasting cauliflower enhances its flavor, bringing out a nutty sweetness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Plus, it adds a delightful texture to your bowl. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender.
These tips will help you create a vibrant and delicious Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl that everyone will enjoy!
Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional base)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup roasted cauliflower florets
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely diced or grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking the chicken and mixing up the tzatziki sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a colorful lunch prep option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Coat the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with this spice mixture, ensuring every surface is covered.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the spiced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is well-browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and taste—adjust the seasoning as needed for a perfect balance.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
If you’re using quinoa or brown rice, start by placing a scoop in the bottom of each serving bowl. Surround the base with chopped romaine lettuce to create a refreshing layer.
5. Add the Veggies:
Evenly distribute the roasted cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion onto the bowls, adding as little or as much as you like.
6. Top with Chicken:
Place the sliced cooked chicken right in the center of the bowl atop the colorful veggies.
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
Generously drizzle the homemade tzatziki sauce over the chicken and veggies. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh dill on top for added flavor!
8. Serve with a Zing:
Lastly, serve your delicious Shawarma bowls with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish adds a bright and zesty kick!
Enjoy a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful chicken shawarma bowl packed with fresh veggies, warming spices, and creamy tzatziki!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even shrimp. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, chickpeas or tofu marinated with the same spices work wonderfully too!
Can I Make This Bowl Vegan?
Yes! Simply use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and swap the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki with a plant-based yogurt. The rest of the ingredients will still provide great flavors and textures.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently on the stove or microwave, and keep the tzatziki separate until you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Quinoa?
If you don’t have quinoa on hand, brown rice is a great alternative. You could also use couscous, farro, or even a mix of greens for a lower-carb option!