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Chicken shawarma bowl served fresh with toppings

Chicken Shawarma Bowl: Bold Flavors Meet Easy Comfort


  • Author: Cindy
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

  • Chicken shawarma bowl with bold spices, creamy garlic sauce, and vibrant toppings. Easy, healthy, and ready in 35 minutes.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken Shawarma:
    • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast
    • 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 tbsp garlic powder
    • 1 tbsp dried oregano
    • 1 tsp ground allspice (heaping)
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    • 1 tsp ground cumin
    • 1 tbsp ground coriander
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tbsp sumac
    • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
    • Sea salt, to taste
    • 1 tsp black pepper

    For the Yellow Rice:

    • 2 cups basmati rice
    • 3 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
    • 1/2 tsp turmeric
    • 1 tsp oregano
    • 1 tsp ground cumin
    • 1 bay leaf
    • Salt, to taste

    For the White Garlic Sauce:

    • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (heaping)
    • 1/4 cup sour cream
    • 7-8 garlic cloves, peeled
    • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice (or more, to taste)
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper
    • 1/2 tsp sugar
    • Water, to thin as needed

    Bowl Add-Ons:

    • Romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
    • Fresh tomatoes, diced
    • Cucumber, sliced
    • Pickled red cabbage
    • Sliced onions
    • Pita bread (optional)
    • Hot sauce of your choice


Instructions

  • Prepare the Garlic Sauce: Blend Greek yogurt, sour cream, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, sugar, black pepper, and enough water to reach desired consistency. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
  • Marinate the Chicken: Slightly freeze chicken for easier slicing. Combine sliced chicken with olive oil, spices, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear chicken slices for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until fully done. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  • Prepare the Rice: Rinse rice until water runs clear. Soak for 10 minutes, then drain. In the same skillet or a separate one, toast rice in olive oil for 1 minute. Add water or broth, spices, and bay leaf. Bring to boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-11 minutes. Let sit covered for 5 minutes. Remove bay leaf and fluff with a fork.
  • Assemble the Bowls: Arrange yellow rice, chicken, and vegetables in a bowl. Drizzle with garlic sauce and add hot sauce as desired. Serve with pita if using.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Protein-Packed Salads
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American