If you’re craving a vibrant, nourishing meal that bursts with Middle Eastern flavors without sacrificing your health goals, this Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with perfectly spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy tahini dressing, this bowl is a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Every bite offers a satisfying mix of warm, zesty, and refreshing notes, making it a wholesome option you’ll want to reach for time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component is chosen not only for flavor but also for nutrition and freshness, creating a bowl that’s colorful, wholesome, and packed with layers of texture.
- Chicken breast (1 pound): A lean protein that absorbs the spices beautifully and keeps the dish light yet satisfying.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons plus 1 for dressing): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps lock in moisture while roasting the chicken.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon plus ½ teaspoon for dressing): Provides that earthy warmth that’s signature to shawarma seasoning.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a mild smoky flavor and vibrant red color to the spice blend.
- Ground turmeric (1 teaspoon): Offers a beautiful golden hue and a gentle, peppery depth.
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Adds a bright, lemony note that livens up the mix.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon plus ½ teaspoon for dressing): Infuses a savory punch essential for any shawarma.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances umami and rounds out the spice profile.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Surprising but integral for warmth and subtle sweetness that balances savory spices.
- Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Offers sharpness and gentle heat.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just a touch of spicy kick without overpowering.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential to season and amplify all the flavors.
- Cooked quinoa (1 cup): A nutty, gluten-free grain base that delivers fiber and protein.
- Chopped cucumber (1 cup): Provides refreshing crunch and coolness to balance the spices.
- Chopped tomatoes (1 cup): Bring juiciness and vibrant color.
- Chopped red onion (½ cup): Adds sharpness and crisp bite.
- Fresh parsley (¼ cup) & fresh cilantro (¼ cup): Bright herbs that add freshness, aroma, and a pop of green.
- Tahini (2 tablespoons): This creamy sesame paste is the star of the dressing, offering richness and earthiness.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Injects a zesty tang that cuts through the richness and uplifts the entire bowl.
- Water (¼ cup): Used to smooth out the tahini dressing for perfect drizzling consistency.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Chicken
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This ensures every mouthful is easy to enjoy and perfectly coated with spices. The crisp yet tender chicken will be your bowl’s flavorful protein powerhouse.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Combine the chicken with olive oil and the full blend of shawarma spices: cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, black pepper, cayenne, and salt. Toss everything together until each piece is evenly coated because this spice mix is what makes this recipe unforgettable.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden and develop a slight crisp on the edges. This dry heat roasting locks in moisture and enhances the complex spice flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Quinoa
While the chicken bakes, prepare your quinoa according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. This grain base adds a pleasing texture and soaks up the delicious juices and dressing perfectly.
Step 5: Chop Fresh Veggies and Herbs
Dice cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion; finely chop parsley and cilantro. These fresh ingredients introduce brightness, crunch, and herbal notes that beautifully complement the warm, spicy chicken.
Step 6: Whisk the Tahini Dressing
In a small bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, water, olive oil, garlic powder, and cumin. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and creamy yet pourable. This luscious sauce ties every element of the bowl together with its nutty, tangy charm.
Step 7: Assemble Your Shawarma Bowl
Layer the cooked quinoa at the base of your serving bowls, top with chopped veggies and herbs, then crown with the golden baked chicken. Drizzle generously with the tahini dressing and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of nourishing goodness.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, a wedge of lemon for extra zing, or some toasted sesame seeds for crunch and nuttiness. These little finishing touches make each serving feel special.
Side Dishes
This bowl shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. These sides elevate the meal while keeping it balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the ingredients in mason jars for an on-the-go lunch or serving the components deconstructed so everyone can customize their bowl. Presenting it family-style on a colorful platter invites shared meals and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken, quinoa, and veggies separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps each component fresh and allows for easy reheating without sogginess or loss of texture.
Freezing
The spiced cooked chicken freezes beautifully and can be thawed quickly for future meals. Quinoa also freezes well, but fresh veggies and herbs are best added fresh to maintain their crunch and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat the chicken and quinoa in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. Add fresh vegetables and drizzle with tahini dressing afterward to keep the dish bright and fresh tasting.
FAQs
Can I use dark meat chicken instead of breast?
Absolutely! Dark meat like thighs can add extra juiciness and richness. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked but still tender.
Is quinoa the only grain I can use?
Not at all! Couscous, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives depending on your preference or dietary needs.
How spicy is the Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe?
The recipe uses just a hint of cayenne pepper for mild heat, but you can easily adjust it up or down based on your spice tolerance.
Can I make the tahini dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a good whisk before serving, as it may thicken when chilled.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The components store well separately, making this bowl a perfect, healthy meal prep option for busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a bowl that is as healthy as it is flavorful, and this Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe hits every note. It’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough to impress friends or family. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Go on, treat yourself to this delicious, wholesome bowl!
Print
Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a vibrant and nutritious meal featuring spiced, oven-baked chicken breast served over fluffy quinoa with fresh chopped vegetables and a creamy tahini dressing. Packed with flavorful Middle Eastern spices and fresh herbs, this dish offers a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Spices
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Base and Vegetables
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Tahini Dressing
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for dressing)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (for dressing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the spiced chicken, ensuring it will cook evenly and become golden brown.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons olive oil and all the spices — cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss well until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden on the edges.
- Cook the Quinoa: While the chicken bakes, cook the quinoa according to package instructions, usually by boiling in water until fluffy. Set aside once done.
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, fresh parsley, and fresh cilantro. This mix adds fresh crunch and vibrant color to the bowl.
- Make the Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons tahini, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin until smooth and creamy. Adjust water quantity for desired consistency.
- Assemble the Bowl: On serving plates or bowls, layer the cooked quinoa as the base. Top with the fresh chopped vegetables, then place the baked chicken on top. Drizzle the creamy tahini dressing over everything to finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with spices and olive oil for 30 minutes before baking.
- You can substitute quinoa with brown rice or couscous if preferred.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to alter the spiciness level.
- Leftover chicken and dressing keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For a vegan version, replace chicken with chickpeas and omit if preferred.
