Are you craving a salad that’s not only refreshing but also packed with protein and full of bold flavors? Look no further than the High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl. This meal is the perfect combination of savory marinated chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce, all coming together to give you a satisfying, nutritious meal.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare this recipe, from the ingredients to the step-by-step preparation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a healthy yet indulgent lunch, this Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl will be a hit.
What Is the High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl?
The High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl is a vibrant and satisfying dish inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine. It features juicy marinated chicken, seasoned with traditional shawarma spices, served on a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a touch of quinoa or bulgur for added protein. The dish is finished with a tangy, high-protein garlic yogurt sauce, making it the perfect balance of freshness, flavor, and nourishment.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a post-workout meal, or a delicious dinner, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences.
The Origin of Chicken Shawarma
Shawarma, a popular Middle Eastern street food, has a rich history. Originating in Turkey and the Levant region, shawarma was originally made by stacking seasoned cuts of meat (often lamb or beef) on a vertical rotisserie, where it would cook slowly and develop an irresistible smoky flavor. Over time, chicken became a popular alternative due to its accessibility and lighter taste.
The Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl takes this iconic flavor profile and transforms it into a healthy, bowl-style salad, making it a great option for anyone craving the savory, aromatic spices of shawarma without the heaviness of a pita wrap.
Ingredients for the High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl (Serves 4)
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1½–2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (helps tenderize the chicken)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- Pinch cayenne (optional, for extra heat)
Salad Base:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens, chopped
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or bulgur (optional but boosts protein & texture)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional add-ins: pickled onions, olives, pepperoncini (for extra tang and flavor)
For the High-Protein Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (use 2% or 0% for the highest protein content)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp tahini (optional for a creamy texture)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin, if needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
The key to tender, flavorful chicken lies in a great marinade. Start by mixing the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and all of the spices (cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and cayenne) in a bowl. Once the marinade is well combined, coat the chicken thoroughly in the mixture, ensuring each piece is fully covered.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 12 hours in the fridge) to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken
After marinating, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can grill, bake, or sear the chicken in a hot skillet. If you’re baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for 18–22 minutes or until it’s fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or chopping it into bite-sized pieces. This will help retain the juiciness of the chicken.
3. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
To make the creamy garlic yogurt sauce, simply stir together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, tahini (if using), finely minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a drizzly consistency, add a splash of water and mix until smooth.
This sauce not only adds a burst of creaminess but also complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
4. Assemble the Salad Bowls
Now, it’s time to assemble the salad bowls! Start by layering the following ingredients in each bowl:
- Mixed greens or romaine lettuce: The base of your salad.
- Cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness.
- Cherry tomatoes: For a burst of juiciness.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a touch of sharpness.
- Cooked quinoa or bulgur: Optional, but it adds extra protein and a nice texture.
- Sliced shawarma chicken: The star of the dish.
- Chopped parsley: For a fresh, herby finish.
Once the ingredients are layered, drizzle generously with the garlic yogurt sauce.
Variations to Try
- Protein Boost: For a leaner, higher-protein version, opt for chicken breast instead of thighs. If you’re still craving more protein, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt sauce or toss in some roasted chickpeas.
- Grain-Free Option: Skip the quinoa or bulgur for a grain-free option. You can add more veggies like roasted eggplant or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Add Heat: If you like your meals spicy, try adding a few sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some extra kick.
FAQs About the High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with other proteins like tofu, tempeh, or grilled lamb for a different twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for different proteins.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the chicken the day you’re ready to eat, and assemble the bowls as needed.
Can I skip the yogurt sauce?
You can skip the yogurt sauce if you prefer, but it adds a wonderful creamy element. Alternatively, you can substitute it with hummus or a tahini-based dressing for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion: High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl
The High-Protein Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl is a versatile and delicious meal that brings the bold, aromatic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. With its balance of tender, marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed lunch, a post-workout meal, or something for your next meal prep, this salad bowl has got you covered.
Give it a try today and enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
