Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Easy to make Chicken Shawarma Bowl brings a delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients to your table. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering vibrant flavors and nutritious components that everyone will love. With tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and colorful veggies, this bowl is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Shawarma Bowl comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Spices: The use of Ras El Hanout seasoning creates an aromatic and delicious flavor profile that elevates the dish.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Perfect for lunch or dinner, you can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful mix of vegetables makes this bowl not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Chicken Shawarma Bowl, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures that your chicken cooks evenly without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Perfect for rinsing quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating, resulting in a fluffier texture.
• Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for cooking quinoa to perfection.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.

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Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 1 cup dry quinoa
– 1.5 cups water
– 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), smoked paprika, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. If using shawarma seasoning instead of Ras El Hanout, do not add paprika.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil along with the sliced white onion; sauté until translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook until golden brown and cooked through for about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, 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. At first, the water will appear cloudy but will become clear as you rinse.

Step 5: Cook Quinoa

Drain the rinsed quinoa and place it into a pot. Add 1.5 cups of water along with about 2/3 teaspoon of kosher salt. Set heat to high and boil until most liquid is absorbed and ‘tails’ are visible on the quinoa grains (about 12-15 minutes).

Step 6: Prepare Salad Ingredients

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

Step 7: Dress the Salad

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

Step 8: Fluff Quinoa

Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool slightly before assembling your bowls.

Step 9: Assemble Bowls

In serving bowls, add portions of quinoa first as a base. Top each serving with ample chicken shawarma pieces alongside the salad.

Step 10: Serve

Enjoy immediately! For added zest, drizzle a bit of lemon juice over each serving of chicken shawarma if desired.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your flavorful Chicken Shawarma Bowl!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Serving your Chicken Shawarma Bowl can be as creative as you like. This dish is versatile and allows for various toppings and sides, making it perfect for any meal.

Fresh Vegetables

• Crisp Lettuce – Use romaine or butter lettuce to add crunch.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado enhances the flavor and adds healthy fats.

Sauces and Dressings

• Tahini Sauce – Drizzle tahini over the bowl for a nutty flavor.
• Garlic Yogurt Sauce – A cool yogurt sauce balances the spices in the shawarma.

Grains and Bases

• Brown Rice – Substitute quinoa with brown rice for a hearty base.
• Pita Bread – Serve with warm pita on the side for scooping up ingredients.

Extras

• Chickpeas – Add roasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch.
• Pickled Vegetables – Include some pickled radishes or turnips for a tangy kick.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Bowl

To elevate your Chicken Shawarma Bowl, consider these easy tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh spices provide a more vibrant taste. Make sure they are not expired!
• Marinate the Chicken – Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes can deepen the flavors.
• Sauté Onions Thoroughly – Caramelizing onions adds sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.
• Fluff Quinoa Properly – Fluffing quinoa after cooking prevents it from becoming mushy, ensuring a better texture.
• Garnish Generously – Don’t forget fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro; they brighten up the dish beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Shawarma Bowl can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Hummus – A creamy dip made from chickpeas, perfect for spreading on pita.
2. Tabbouleh Salad – A refreshing salad made with bulgur, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil make a delightful side.
4. Fattoush Salad – A crunchy salad with crispy bread, mixed greens, and tangy dressing adds texture.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves – These bite-sized treats filled with rice and herbs offer an authentic Mediterranean touch.
6. Grilled Eggplant – Smoky grilled eggplant slices provide a delicious contrast to the chicken flavors.
7. Couscous Salad – Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and veggies pairs well with shawarma bowls.
8. Olive Tapenade – This spread made from olives adds a salty punch that’s delightful alongside your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chicken Shawarma Bowl, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the Ras El Hanout and other spices for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the quinoa: Cooking quinoa for too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely, and check for the tails to know when it’s done.
• Not letting the quinoa cool: Adding hot quinoa to your bowl can wilt your salad ingredients. Allow it to cool before mixing.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Use fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs for a vibrant salad.
• Forgetting the lemon juice: Lemon juice adds brightness to the dish. Don’t skip this step; drizzle some over the chicken shawarma before serving for extra zing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread out on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing a Chicken Shawarma Bowl.

Can I use different meats for my Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if you prefer a different protein.

How do I customize my Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or spinach, or include grains like couscous or farro for variety.

What is Ras El Hanout seasoning?

Ras El Hanout is a North African spice blend that adds depth and warmth to dishes. If unavailable, you can use shawarma seasoning instead.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

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

How can I enhance the flavor of my Chicken Shawarma Bowl?

Consider adding garlic, extra herbs, or yogurt-based sauces on top for additional flavor dimensions.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner. Customize it with your favorite veggies or grains to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try!