How To Make Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

GET YOUR AIR FRYER HERE

Shawarma is a delicious Middle Eastern dish packed with bold flavors, but traditional versions often come with extra oils and calories. If you're looking for a healthy yet flavorful alternative, this Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is perfect! It combines lean protein, fiber-rich grains, fresh vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce—all while keeping it nutritious and satisfying.

This easy homemade recipe will help you enjoy your favorite street food guilt-free. Let’s dive into how you can make a restaurant-style chicken shawarma bowl at home, packed with wholesome ingredients!

Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

• High in Protein: Made with lean chicken breast to keep you full longer.

• Rich in Fiber: Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice boost fiber intake.

• Healthy Fats: The yogurt-based garlic sauce is a nutritious alternative to heavy dressings.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead for quick and easy healthy meals.

• Gluten-Free & Customizable: Adjust ingredients to fit dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (thighs add more juiciness)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (adds tenderness)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp turmeric

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp coriander

• ½ tsp salt

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

• 1 cup chopped cucumbers

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup shredded lettuce

• ¼ cup hummus

• 2 tbsp feta cheese (optional)

For the Healthy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp tahini

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ½ tsp salt

• Water (to thin, if needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices.

• Add the chicken and coat it well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes.

• Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Bowl Ingredients

• Cook brown rice or quinoa as per package instructions.

• Chop all fresh vegetables.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, and salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
• Start with a base of rice or quinoa.

• Add sliced chicken shawarma on top.

• Arrange cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and lettuce around it.

• Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce and a dollop of hummus.

• Sprinkle with feta cheese if using.

Enjoy your flavor-packed, nutritious chicken shawarma bowl!

Pro Tips for the Best Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl

✅ Marinate Overnight: The longer, the better for deeper flavors.

✅ Use Chicken Thighs for More Juiciness: Though higher in fat, they make for tender shawarma.

✅ Customize Your Bowl: Swap grains, add avocado, or sprinkle sumac for extra tang.

✅ Make it Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt.

Nutrition Benefits of This Healthy Shawarma Bowl

This bowl is high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats while being lower in calories than traditional shawarma wraps. Here’s what you get in one serving:

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: 35g

• Carbs: 40g

• Healthy Fats: 12g

Perfect for a balanced meal that keeps you energized throughout the day!

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?

Yes! Swap chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or grilled eggplant.

What’s the Best Grain to Use?

Brown rice and quinoa are great choices for fiber and protein. Cauliflower rice is a low-carb option.

How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?

Store ingredients separately for up to 4 days and assemble fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is proof that you can enjoy bold flavors while keeping your meals nutritious. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, this dish will satisfy your cravings guilt-free!

Try it and let me know how it turns out!