Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl

Name: Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups basmati rice; 4 cups water; Salt to taste; Sliced cucumbers; Tomato diced; Chopped parsley; Tahini sauce; Pickled red onions

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

When I first tried making a Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl at home, I was blown away by how easy it was to replicate that restaurant-quality flavor in my own kitchen. The aromatic spices blend seamlessly with tender chicken, all served atop a fluffy bed of rice. I love how customizable this dish is, allowing you to add your favorite toppings to make it truly your own. Whether you prefer a fresh salad or tangy pickles, this bowl is a satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Middle East right to my dining table.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-23T12:58:18.946Z

In my pursuit of the perfect Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl, I experimented with various spice blends and marinades to truly capture that bold flavor. The key is to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, allowing the spices to penetrate deeply and create a flavorful crust during cooking. I found that grilling the chicken elevates the taste even further, giving it a charred, smoky finish that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauces I like to add.

Beyond the chicken, the rice is an essential part of this dish. I prefer to use basmati rice, as it adds a fragrant element that complements the spices perfectly. Adding a splash of lemon juice during the cooking process enhances the overall dish, providing a zesty brightness that balances the savory components. This bowl has quickly become a household favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory marinated chicken bursts with Middle Eastern flavors
Customizable toppings for endless variations
Healthy and satisfying meal perfect for any night

Mastering the Marinade

The chicken marinade is a key element in achieving that iconic Shawarma flavor. By using a combination of olive oil and spices, you not only infuse the chicken with flavor but also create a barrier that helps retain moisture during cooking. Marinating for at least one hour is essential, but for deeper flavor, consider marinating overnight. This lets the spices penetrate the chicken thoroughly, ensuring each bite is packed with savory goodness.

Don't hesitate to adjust the spices according to your preference. For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the marinade. You can also play with the ratios of cumin and coriander based on your taste. Experimenting with the marinade is a great way to make this dish uniquely yours, so feel free to get creative!

Cooking Techniques

For the best results when cooking the chicken, using a grill imparts a smoky flavor and attractive grill marks, enhancing the overall presentation. If you opt for a skillet, ensure it’s preheated to medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil before cooking. You’ll know the chicken is ready to flip when it releases easily from the pan and has developed a golden-brown crust. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s moist and tender inside.

If you notice the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning while ensuring it's cooked through. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes post-cooking will help juices redistribute, keeping it juicy when you slice it. A meat thermometer is a great tool here for accurate cooking.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl, consider adding some seasonal vegetables or grains. Roasted bell peppers or zucchini add a great texture alongside the rice. You can also incorporate quinoa or couscous as a base for a different take on this dish, offering a nutty flavor and varied nutrition. I recommend keeping the toppings fresh and crunchy to balance the warm spices of the chicken.

Don’t overlook the garnishes! The tahini sauce is not just a flavor enhancer; it adds creaminess to the dish. Drizzling it on top of the bowl can transform the overall experience. For an extra crunch, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds make excellent add-ins. Feel free to personalize the bowls with your favorite toppings and sauces, making each meal an expression of your culinary creativity!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma

1 lb boneless chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups basmati rice
4 cups water
Salt to taste

Toppings

Sliced cucumbers
Tomato diced
Chopped parsley
Tahini sauce
Pickled red onions

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Cook the Rice

In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice, a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it steam for another 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and charred.

Assemble the Rice Bowl

Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it into bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. Add pickled onions for an extra flavor kick.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For meal prep, cook extra chicken and rice to use throughout the week. This dish also pairs well with fresh pita bread.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a leaner option, chicken breast can be used instead of thighs, but be mindful that it may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out. Simply adjust the marinating time to 30 minutes, as the breast meat absorbs flavors more quickly, and monitor it closely while cooking to ensure it remains juicy.

For a vegetarian version, chickpeas can serve as a great alternative. Toss them in the same marinade and roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes. This not only provides a hearty texture but also ensures plenty of flavor, making it a satisfying option for plant-based eaters.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from the Chicken Shawarma Rice Bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken's moisture. If using a microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from becoming dry.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated, uncooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, and you can enjoy the convenience of a quick meal later. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

Variations to Try

Explore the world of spices by trying out different blends for the Shawarma. Harissa or Za'atar spices can add an entirely new dimension to your dish. Adding garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to the marinade will amplify the depth of flavor and is an excellent option if you're a garlic lover.

You can also change up the type of rice for a different texture. For a nuttier flavor, try farro or barley instead of basmati. If you’re looking for a more exotic touch, saffron-infused rice can elevate the dish and make it feel like a gourmet dining experience right at home.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs will yield a juicier result.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ What is shawarma spice?

Shawarma spice is typically a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric—key to the dish's flavor.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, the chicken can be marinated ahead of time, and the rice can be cooked and reheated when needed.