Light Chicken Shawarma Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with these Light Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowls. This dish is a refreshing and nutrient-dense take on a classic favorite, featuring aromatic grilled chicken and a medley of crisp, fresh vegetables. Finished with a velvety lemon tahini drizzle, it’s a perfectly balanced meal that is as satisfying as it is healthy.

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This bowl is ideal for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of warm, spiced protein and cool, crunchy greens creates a delightful texture that makes every bite interesting. It’s a versatile recipe that brings the essence of Mediterranean street food right into your kitchen with ease and elegance.

Ingredients

• 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• 120 g (4 cups) mixed salad greens
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 200 g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 60 g (1/4 cup) pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced

• 60 g (1/4 cup) tahini
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp water (plus more as needed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken slices and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 2

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice if needed.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, cumin, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Adjust water to reach a creamy, pourable consistency.

Step 4

Divide salad greens among four bowls. Arrange cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, carrot, bell pepper, olives, and avocado on top.

Step 5

Top each bowl with warm chicken shawarma slices. Drizzle generously with lemon tahini sauce.

Step 6

Serve immediately, with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a heavy-duty skillet or grill pan ensures the chicken develops a beautiful golden crust. For the best efficiency, use a sharp chef's knife and a sturdy cutting board to prep your vegetables while the chicken marinates. Ensure you have a small whisk on hand to emulsify the tahini drizzle into a perfectly smooth sauce.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan alternative, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or seasoned chickpeas. If you are looking for a more filling meal, consider adding a base of cooked quinoa or brown rice to the bowls. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, but always double-check your ingredient labels for hidden allergens like sulfites in olives or sesame in tahini.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these bowls immediately while the chicken is still warm. Enhance the experience by pairing the meal with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of sparkling water with a fresh lemon wedge. Extra lemon wedges on the side allow guests to adjust the acidity to their liking.

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Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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With 410 calories and 32g of protein per serving, these Light Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowls are a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. Whether you're fueling up for the day or winding down with a healthy dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying experience without the heaviness of traditional wraps. Enjoy the fresh, zesty, and aromatic journey in every bowl!

Recipe FAQs

→ What spices are used in the chicken marinade?

The chicken marinade features cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, balanced with lemon juice for brightness.

→ How is the lemon tahini drizzle prepared?

The drizzle is made by whisking tahini with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, adjusted with water to a creamy, pourable consistency.

→ Can this be adapted for a plant-based diet?

Yes, grilled tofu or chickpeas can replace the chicken to maintain the protein element and keep the dish light and flavorful.

→ What vegetables are included in the salad bowls?

The salad bowls include mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, carrot, red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and avocado for fresh crunch and creaminess.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?

Absolutely, all components are gluten-free and dairy-free, making this bowl a safe and nutritious option for these dietary preferences.