Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m thrilled to share my recipe for a high protein chicken shawarma bowl! This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an absolute winner for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste. I love how this bowl brings together tender, marinated chicken with a rainbow of fresh veggies and hearty quinoa, all topped off with a creamy dollop of hummus. It’s like a party in a bowl!
One of the best things about this recipe is how quick it is to prepare—just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal ready to go in no time. Plus, each serving is loaded with protein, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied. Trust me, once you try this high protein chicken shawarma bowl, it’ll become a go-to in your meal rotation!
Ingredients List
Let’s gather everything you need for this delicious high protein chicken shawarma bowl. I promise, these ingredients come together to create a meal that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying!
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp shawarma spice mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup hummus
Feel free to play around with the ingredients! You can add your favorite veggies or even switch up the grains if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember, the fresher, the better!
How to Prepare the High Protein Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious high protein chicken shawarma bowl! I’ll walk you through it step by step, so you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Trust me, this is a meal you’ll want to repeat!
Marinating the Chicken
First things first, let’s marinate that chicken! In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of shawarma spice mix, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. I love using my hands to mix it all together—there’s something about getting a little messy that just feels right in the kitchen!
Now, take your 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast and add it to the bowl. Make sure each piece is coated well in that flavorful marinade. For the best taste, let it sit for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate longer in the fridge (up to 2 hours) really allows those spices to soak in and work their magic!
Cooking the Chicken
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to heat things up! Grab your grill pan and place it over medium heat. Allow it to get nice and hot—this is key for that perfect sear. When it’s ready, add the chicken to the pan. You should hear a delightful sizzle; if you don’t, it’s not hot enough yet!
Cook the chicken for about 7-10 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you’ve got a meat thermometer handy, now’s the time to use it! Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it up. This helps keep all those juices inside and makes for a tender bite!
Assembling the Bowl
Now for the best part—assembling your bowl! Start with a generous base of 1 cup of cooked quinoa at the bottom. This is where your protein-packed goodness begins! Next, add a handful of mixed greens, about 1 cup. I love the crunch they add.
Then, layer on those vibrant cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved) and diced cucumber (1/4 cup). These fresh veggies bring a burst of flavor and color to your bowl. Now, slice your chicken into strips and arrange it on top. Don’t worry about being perfect; the more rustic, the better!
Finally, finish it off with a dollop of creamy hummus (1/4 cup). It adds a rich texture and complements all the flavors beautifully. And there you have it—a beautiful, hearty high protein chicken shawarma bowl ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite, my friend!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this high protein chicken shawarma bowl! Each serving is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a boost for your body. Here are the typical nutritional values you can expect:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Vitamin A: 150 IU
- Vitamin C: 25mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 3mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and how you prepare the dish. But rest assured, you’re still getting a wholesome meal loaded with nutrients that support your health and keep you feeling energized. Enjoy this guilt-free bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this delicious meal in under 35 minutes!
- High in Protein: Each bowl packs a punch with 35g of protein, making it a satisfying option for post-workout refueling or a busy weeknight dinner.
- Healthful Ingredients: Loaded with fresh veggies, whole grains, and lean chicken, this bowl is not just tasty but also nourishing.
- Flavor Explosion: The shawarma spice mix elevates the chicken, bringing a burst of Middle Eastern flavors that will have your taste buds dancing!
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to fit your preferences! Swap in your favorite veggies, grains, or dressings for a unique twist every time.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and you’ll have healthy lunches or dinners ready to go, saving you time and energy during the week.
Tips for Success
To make your high protein chicken shawarma bowl absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few pro tips that will elevate your dish to the next level. Trust me, these little tweaks can make all the difference!
Marinating Time is Key
For the best flavor, don’t rush the marinating process! While 15 minutes is the minimum to get some flavor into the chicken, if you can, let it marinate for at least an hour or even overnight in the fridge. The longer you let it sit, the more those spices will penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bite.
Perfectly Preheated Pan
When you’re ready to cook, make sure your grill pan is preheated properly. A hot pan ensures a good sear, which not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist. If you add the chicken and it doesn’t sizzle, just take it back off for a moment and let the pan heat up a little more. You want that satisfying sound!
Check for Doneness
Cooking chicken can be tricky sometimes, so I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for clear juices running from the chicken and that golden-brown exterior. It should also feel firm to the touch.
Resting the Chicken
Letting your chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking is a game changer! This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each slice is tender and packed with flavor. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!
Layering is Everything
When assembling your bowl, think about how flavors and textures work together. Start with the quinoa as a base, then layer the greens followed by the veggies and chicken. This not only looks beautiful but also means that each bite has a little bit of everything—it’s a perfect harmony of flavors!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a high protein chicken shawarma bowl that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to get a little creative along the way!
Variations
The beauty of the high protein chicken shawarma bowl is its versatility! You can easily switch up the ingredients to keep things exciting and tailored to your taste buds. Here are some fun ideas to vary your bowl:
- Different Proteins: While chicken is delicious, you can substitute it with grilled shrimp, beef, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. Each protein brings its own unique flavor!
- Grain Alternatives: Quinoa is fantastic, but why not try using brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist? Each grain adds its own texture and taste.
- Veggie Swaps: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies! Try bell peppers, roasted sweet potatoes, or zucchini for a different flavor profile. You could even toss in some pickled red onions for an extra zing!
- Herb and Spice Changes: Experiment with different spice blends to change the flavor. A Moroccan spice mix or a simple blend of paprika and cumin can completely transform the dish. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a burst of freshness!
- Dressings and Sauces: Instead of hummus, try a drizzle of tahini sauce, tzatziki, or even a spicy harissa for a kick! These sauces can elevate your bowl and add a new dimension of flavor.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Take advantage of what’s in season! In summer, add grilled corn or fresh herbs; in winter, roasted root vegetables can provide warmth and heartiness.
Mixing and matching these variations will keep your high protein chicken shawarma bowl fresh and exciting every time you whip it up. Let your creativity shine, and enjoy customizing this delicious meal to suit your cravings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve created your delicious high protein chicken shawarma bowl, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers and reheat them for the best taste. Trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite!
First, if you have any leftovers, allow the bowl to cool to room temperature before storing. I usually recommend transferring the chicken, quinoa, and veggies to an airtight container. This helps keep everything fresh and prevents any unwanted moisture from sneaking in. You can store the bowl in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I suggest keeping the components separate if you can. This helps maintain the texture of the ingredients. For the chicken, you can pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated through. If you prefer, you can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed. Just be sure to add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it from drying out!
For the quinoa and veggies, the microwave works great, too! Heat them for about 1 minute, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you want to add a bit of life back to the veggies, a quick sauté in a pan with a little olive oil can make them taste fresh again.
And don’t forget about the hummus! It can be enjoyed cold on the side or, if you prefer, you can warm it gently in the microwave for just a few seconds. However, I love it best straight from the fridge, cool and creamy!
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your high protein chicken shawarma bowl even on those busy days when you need a quick meal. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Q1. Can I make this high protein chicken shawarma bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and cook it ahead of time, then store everything in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you can assemble your bowl quickly whenever you’re ready to eat.
Q2. What can I use instead of quinoa?
If quinoa isn’t your thing, no worries! You can easily substitute it with brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each of these grains offers a unique flavor and texture to your high protein chicken shawarma bowl.
Q3. How do I customize the spices in the marinade?
Feel free to get creative with the spices! If you’re not a fan of the shawarma spice mix, you can use a blend of cumin, paprika, and coriander for a different twist. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile.
Q4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This high protein chicken shawarma bowl is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare a few servings at once and enjoy them throughout the week. Just store the components separately to keep everything fresh and tasty.
Q5. Can I make this bowl vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To make a vegetarian or vegan version, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables. You can still use the same marinade for the chickpeas to pack them with flavor. This way, you can enjoy all the deliciousness while keeping it plant-based!
High Protein Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Equipment
- Grill Pan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast boneless and skinless
For the Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp shawarma spice mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Bowl
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup hummus
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, shawarma spice mix, and garlic powder. Add chicken and coat well.
- Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 7-10 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, slice the chicken and prepare the bowls. Start with a base of quinoa, add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and sliced chicken.
- Top with a dollop of hummus and serve.