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 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup tahini dressing or yogurt sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meals

I love making this Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl because it perfectly balances convenience and flavor. With tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, I find it satisfying yet wholesome. Each bowl is a colorful presentation of nutritious toppings that really brings each bite to life. Whether I'm prepping a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish never disappoints. It's a flavorful escape that feels indulgent while still being healthy.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:21:35.030Z

When I first discovered chicken shawarma, I fell in love with its rich spices and robust flavors. I knew I had to create a healthier version that I could enjoy guilt-free. By grilling the chicken instead of frying and loading up on fresh veggies, I managed to keep all the joy of this classic dish without compromising my health goals.

To create that authentic shawarma taste, I marinated the chicken in a mix of warm spices, garlic, and yogurt, which not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a delightful tang. The fresh lemon juice I drizzled on top brightens the entire bowl, making it a hit at my dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices create a mouthwatering flavor profile
Packed with fresh veggies for a satisfying crunch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The Greek yogurt acts as a base, providing creaminess while the acidity of the lemon juice helps break down the proteins, resulting in juicy chicken. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will deepen the flavors even further. Just be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acidity can make the chicken mushy if left for more than 24 hours.

Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade to ensure every bite is flavorful. I like to use a resealable plastic bag for marinating to allow the chicken to envelop in the marinade better. If you're short on time, marinades can still infuse decent flavor in a half-hour, but the longer it sits, the more the spices and yogurt penetrate the meat.

Perfectly Cooking Chicken

For cooking the chicken, achieving that ideal char while ensuring it’s cooked through can be tricky. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat—around 375°F to 400°F—to get a good sear without burning. Cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side should give you a nice golden brown exterior. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking is key; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. If you're using an outdoor grill, watch for flare-ups that can occur from the marinade drippings; have a spray bottle handy with water to control flames and prevent charring.

Serving and Storage Tips

When assembling your bowl, feel free to customize with your favorite toppings. You might incorporate avocado slices for creaminess, or olives for a briny punch. Adding roasted chickpeas or nuts can enhance the texture and nutrition profile. Remember that the tahini dressing is quite thick; you can thin it with a bit of water or additional lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency.

If you plan to make this a meal prep option, store the components separately to maintain freshness. Cooked quinoa or rice can last for up to a week in the fridge, while cooked chicken should be consumed within 3-4 days. Just reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or a hot pan, and assemble your bowl fresh each day.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl:

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
2 cups mixed salad greens
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup tahini dressing or yogurt sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready for assembly!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your chicken shawarma bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, layer cooked quinoa or brown rice, mixed greens, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Top with sliced chicken and drizzle with tahini dressing or yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add roasted chickpeas or pickled vegetables as toppings.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is versatile, allowing for ingredient swaps based on what you have on hand or dietary needs. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, consider zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of quinoa or brown rice. For those who are dairy-free, you can replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, or simply omit it altogether and increase the spices to maintain flavor.

If you prefer a different protein, feel free to swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, but keep in mind that breasts may require less marinating time, as they can dry out faster when cooked. Tofu or jackfruit can be fantastic plant-based alternatives that absorb the marinade beautifully, just aim to sauté them until crispy for added texture.

Flavor Variations

To elevate the flavor profile, consider experimenting with your spice blend. Adding a bit of cinnamon or allspice can introduce a warm undertone that complements the savory elements nicely. A touch of red pepper flakes can add heat if you enjoy a bit of spice. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs, such as thyme or cilantro, can also give each bowl a fresh twist.

If you're craving a tangier sauce, try a homemade garlic-lemon sauce with additional herbs. Blend olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill for a zesty drizzle, or even a spicy harissa yogurt for those who enjoy a kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. They will require less cooking time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

Pita bread or a light soup can complement this bowl nicely.