The scent of spices wafts through the air as the sizzling chicken hits the grill. Each bite of this Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl bursts with flavors that dance on your taste buds, making it an instant favorite for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a ticket to a Mediterranean escape right in your kitchen. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients create a feast for both the eyes and the stomach.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious grilled chicken shawarma bowl offers incredible flavors while being quick and easy to prepare
- You can easily customize it to suit any dietary needs
- Its stunning presentation makes it perfect for gatherings or meal prep
- Enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal that transports you straight to the streets of the Middle East
My friends couldn’t stop asking for seconds when I first served them this delightful dish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts, adjusting for your crowd size and appetite.
- Olive Oil: A rich base that adds flavor and moisture to your chicken.
- Garlic Powder: Opt for fresh garlic if you love bold flavors; otherwise, garlic powder works well too.
- Cumin: This spice adds that warm earthy taste essential for authentic shawarma.
- Paprika: I recommend smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
- Ground Coriander: Offers a slight citrus note that brightens up the dish.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates flavors beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key for enhancing all those wonderful flavors.
- Fresh Vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers): These add crunch and freshness to your bowl.
- Pita Bread or Rice: Serve as a base for your shawarma bowl; both options are delicious!
- Tahini Sauce or Yogurt Sauce (optional): Drizzle over the top for added creaminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preparing the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, ground coriander, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth to create a flavorful marinade.
Marinating the Chicken: Add your chicken breasts into the marinade mixture. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator; longer is even better!
Grilling Time!: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place marinated chicken on the hot grill and cook each side for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked through and slightly charred.
Slicing Up That Chicken!: Once cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F), remove from heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips; this keeps all those juicy flavors inside.
Building Your Bowl: Take your base of rice or pita bread and layer on sliced grilled chicken. Top with fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes and cucumbers.
Dressing It Up!: Drizzle tahini sauce or yogurt sauce over everything. You can also sprinkle some extra spices if you’re feeling adventurous!
Enjoy every bite of this colorful mixture filled with delightful textures and layers of flavor!
Now you have everything you need to whip up your own Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl at home! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This grilled chicken shawarma bowl recipe delivers a punch of flavor while being easy to make
- The vibrant spices and fresh ingredients create a colorful, mouthwatering dish that will impress your guests and make your taste buds dance
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, marinate the chicken first, grill it until juicy, and prepare your toppings while it cooks. This ensures everything is ready at once for a delicious meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out veggies or use different proteins like beef or tofu. Experiment with spices for a unique twist on this classic dish and make it your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring you don’t dry out the chicken.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Properly marinating your chicken will enhance its flavor significantly; don’t skip this step
- Always let your grill preheat for better searing, creating those coveted grill marks
- For extra richness, drizzle with tahini sauce before serving for a creamy finish
The first time I made a grilled chicken shawarma bowl, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their excitement turned into a weekly tradition, filling our kitchen with laughter and delicious aromas.
FAQ
What can I use instead of chicken for this shawarma bowl?
You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything in advance and assemble just before serving for freshness.

Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of this Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowl, bursting with spices and fresh ingredients for a healthy, satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers)
- Pita bread or rice for serving
- Tahini or yogurt sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Create the marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, ground coriander, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Marinate the chicken: Coat chicken breasts with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat; cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
- Assemble the bowl: Layer rice or pita with sliced chicken and top with fresh vegetables. Drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (450g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg