Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. This nutritious dish combines tender chicken breast chunks seasoned to perfection, fresh vegetables, and fluffy quinoa, all served in a beautiful bowl. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal prepping for the week, this Chicken Shawarma Bowl is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Shawarma Bowl can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delicious taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Healthy: Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber from quinoa and vegetables, this recipe is a healthy choice.
• Versatile: Customize your bowl with your favorite veggies or add toppings like avocado or feta cheese for extra flair.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead of time, you can easily store leftovers for lunch throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Shawarma Bowl, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Prevents sticking and makes cooking the chicken easier.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Helps rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness.
• Pot: Necessary for cooking quinoa to fluffy perfection.

Ingredients

Easy to make Chicken shawarma made with lean chicken breast chunks, seasonings, onions, and tossed in a bowl with salad and quinoa.

For the Chicken

• 3-4 chicken breasts boneless/skinless (cut into small bite-sized cubes)
• 1 tsp. Ras El Hanout seasoning (or shawarma seasoning)
• 1 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• ¼ tsp Ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil divided
• 1 small white onion (sliced)

For the Quinoa

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1.5 cups water

For the Salad

• 1 small red onion
• 1 small yellow bell pepper
• 3 garden cucumbers (about 1 cup chopped)
• 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes (different colors if desired)
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1-2 tbsp. fresh chopped curly parsley

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with Ras El Hanout (or shawarma seasoning), paprika, salt, and pepper. If using shawarma seasoning, do not add paprika.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add oil and sliced white onion; sauté until translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add chicken to the pan and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside on a plate. This step can be made ahead.

Step 4: Prepare Quinoa

Using a fine-mesh strainer, rinse the quinoa under cold running water. Rub and swish the quinoa with your hands while rinsing to remove its natural coating.

Step 5: Cook Quinoa

Drain the quinoa and place it into a pot. Add 1.5 cups of water along with about 2/3 tsp of kosher salt. Set the heat to high and boil until liquid is cooked off and ‘tails’ are visible, about 12-15 minutes.

Step 6: Make the Salad

While the quinoa is cooking, chop the red onion, bell pepper, cucumber, tomatoes, and parsley. Combine chopped onion, bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.

Step 7: Dress the Salad

Add lemon juice, olive oil, a pinch of salt and ground pepper to the salad; toss well to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley and set aside.

Step 8: Fluff Quinoa

When the quinoa is done cooking, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool.

Step 9: Assemble Bowls

For serving, add quinoa to each bowl first.

Step 10: Top with Chicken

Top each serving with cooked chicken shawarma. Add salad next to it on each plate before serving.

Optional Step: Add Lemon Juice

Drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the chicken shawarma for an added burst of flavor!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Serving your Chicken Shawarma Bowl can be just as exciting as making it. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor and nutrition.

With a Side of Pita Bread

• Pita bread is perfect for scooping up the chicken and salad, adding a nice texture contrast.

Drizzled with Tahini Sauce

• A drizzle of creamy tahini sauce over the top enhances the bowl with rich, nutty flavors.

Topped with Feta Cheese

• Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick that complements the spices in the chicken.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Adding pickled vegetables like radishes or carrots provides a tangy crunch that brightens up the dish.

Served with Hummus

• A dollop of hummus on the side makes for a great spread and adds more protein to your meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can elevate the flavors and add freshness to your Chicken Shawarma Bowl.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Perfecting your Chicken Shawarma Bowl involves attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to make your dish even better.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition in your bowl.
• Marinate chicken: Allowing chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes can deepen the flavors.
• Cook chicken evenly: Ensure pieces are uniform in size for even cooking and browning.
• Rinse quinoa: Rinsing quinoa removes bitterness, resulting in a fluffier grain.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for personalized flavor balance.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like olives or avocado for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Shawarma Bowl can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Tzatziki Sauce
   A refreshing yogurt-based dip that pairs beautifully with shawarma flavors.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients; toss them in olive oil before roasting.

3. Tabbouleh Salad
   This bulgur-based salad, mixed with parsley and mint, offers a fresh contrast to savory chicken.

4. Fattoush Salad
   A vibrant salad made with crispy pita chips, mixed greens, and zesty dressing enhances texture.

5. Greek Yogurt
   Serving plain Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess and balances spices nicely.

6. Spiced Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the Chicken Shawarma Bowl beautifully.

7. Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed chickpea salad tossed in lemon juice provides additional flavor complexity.

8. Mediterranean Olives
   A selection of marinated olives adds brininess that contrasts well with the shawarma’s spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Chicken Shawarma Bowl is simple, but there are common pitfalls that can detract from your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use Ras El Hanout or shawarma seasoning generously.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown exterior while keeping it juicy inside.
• Not rinsing quinoa: If you skip rinsing quinoa, it can taste bitter. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water before cooking.
• Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Using stale or wilted veggies can ruin your bowl. Always opt for fresh produce for the best taste and texture.
• Serving without garnishes: Not garnishing your bowl misses an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of lemon juice makes a difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Keep the chicken separate from the salad and quinoa to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Freeze components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Label with dates so you can keep track of freshness.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Chicken Shawarma Bowl.

Can I use different meats for the Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What toppings go well with a Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

You can add toppings like feta cheese, olives, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I customize my Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or grains. Try adding roasted sweet potatoes or spinach!

Is this Chicken Shawarma Bowl healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with lean protein, vegetables, and nutritious quinoa, making it a wholesome meal choice.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the salad components in advance for quick assembly later on.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. You can adapt it to suit your tastes by mixing in various vegetables or grains. Enjoy creating this cozy meal that promises satisfaction with every bite!