If you love vibrant flavors and a hearty start to your day, you are going to adore this Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe. Tender, perfectly spiced chicken paired with creamy tahini sauce and fresh ingredients come together in a bowl that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s a creative spin on traditional shawarma that elevates breakfast to a memorable experience filled with layers of taste and texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe brings a Middle Eastern flair that’s sure to brighten up your morning routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients are the building blocks of the Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe. Each element plays a vital role in creating the rich textures and dynamic flavors that make this dish so satisfying. From fragrant spices to the creamy tahini, every component elevates the meal.
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and perfect seasoning absorption.
- 1 onion: Thinly sliced to caramelize beautifully alongside the chicken adding a sweet, savory crunch.
- ½ cup olive oil: The base for the marinade helping infuse the chicken with moisture and flavor.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: Adds an irresistible aromatic punch to the marinade.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the dish and tenderizes the meat for a juicy result.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 2 tsp cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin is key to that classic shawarma taste.
- 1.5 tsp turmeric: Offers a subtle bitterness and gorgeous golden color.
- 1.5 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant hue.
- 1 tsp coriander: Gives a hint of citrusy complexity that lifts the spices.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper: Brings just the right amount of heat to excite your palate.
- ½ tsp ground cloves: A small note of warmth and depth that rounds out the spice mix.
- ½ tsp cinnamon: Adds a cozy sweetness that complements the savory flavors wonderfully.
- ½ cup tahini paste: The creamy star component of the sauce that adds richness and a clean sesame flavor.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Balances the tahini’s earthiness with zesty brightness.
- 1 clove minced garlic: Infuses the sauce with a gentle pungency to keep things lively.
- ¼ cup water: Helps thin the tahini sauce to the perfect consistency for drizzling.
- ½ tsp salt: Fine-tunes the taste of the tahini sauce for smooth harmony.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and the full blend of spices in a bowl. This marinade is what infuses the chicken with that unmistakable shawarma depth, so give it a good whisk. Add the thin strips of chicken and sliced onion, then toss everything together ensuring each piece is fully coated. Pop this mixture in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time lets those bold flavors sink in beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Onions
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add your marinated chicken and onions. As they hit the pan, you’ll immediately smell those spices blooming. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the edges have a lovely golden-brown char. This caramelization is crucial to achieving that authentic shawarma taste and texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Step 3: Prepare the Tahini Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, whip up the tahini sauce. Combine tahini paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk energetically until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If it feels too thick, add a little more water until it reaches a drizzling consistency that will coat your chicken perfectly without overpowering it.
Step 4: Assemble Your Breakfast Bowls
This is the fun part! Place your freshly cooked chicken shawarma and sautéed onions over your choice of base—whether it’s warm grains like quinoa or brown rice, or a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option. Drizzle generously with the smooth tahini sauce, letting it mingle with every bite. Consider adding optional extras like creamy avocado slices or a perfectly fried egg to amp up the flavor and texture variety.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Flavor-Packed Breakfast
Grab a fork and dive right into this vibrant bowl of goodness. Every mouthful bursts with savory, tangy, and slightly spicy elements perfectly balanced by the luscious tahini drizzle. This Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe is a celebration in a bowl that makes waking up early not just easy but exciting.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can transform your Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe into a feast for both eyes and palate. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of green freshness. Add a few slices of pickled turnips or cucumbers for crunch and brightness. Toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds add a delightful nutty finish. Each garnish adds contrast and personality to your dish.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with crisp pita bread or warm flatbreads to scoop up every last bit. A simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon and olive oil complements the rich spices with its cool, refreshing notes. If you want to keep things hearty, roasted potatoes or a small serving of labneh can work wonders alongside your breakfast bowl, creating a truly well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve your chicken shawarma breakfast bowls in rustic ceramic bowls that highlight the golden hues of turmeric and paprika. Layer ingredients in clear glass containers for a colorful, Instagram-worthy effect. Alternatively, make this dish a sharable brunch by placing components in separate bowls so guests can build their own bowls to taste. Presentation helps elevate the enjoyment and makes the meal feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken shawarma keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tahini sauce separate to retain its texture and freshness. When ready to enjoy again, let the chicken come to room temperature or reheat gently to prevent drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken shawarma for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags with the onions included. Avoid freezing the tahini sauce as it can separate and lose its creamy texture. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your chicken shawarma is to use a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly while maintaining moisture. Microwave reheating works too, but keep an eye on the timing to avoid drying. Drizzle with freshly whisked tahini sauce just before serving to revive all those glorious flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually fantastic for this recipe because they tend to stay juicier and more flavorful after cooking. Just be sure to slice them thinly and cook thoroughly.
What can I use if I don’t have tahini paste?
If tahini isn’t available, you can substitute with a smooth almond butter or peanut butter for a different but tasty twist. Adding a bit more lemon and garlic will help balance these alternatives nicely.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a gentle kick from crushed red pepper, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your heat preference, making it milder or livelier.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight will actually enhance the flavors further. Just keep it covered and refrigerated to ensure freshness and maximum taste absorption.
What are some good grain options to serve with these bowls?
Great grain choices include quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or even bulgur. Each provides a different texture and nutrient profile that pairs wonderfully with the shawarma chicken.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe enough if you’re craving a breakfast that goes beyond the usual. It’s packed with bold flavors, simple ingredients, and textures that delight in every bite. Whether you want to impress guests or just treat yourself, this recipe is a brilliant way to start the day on a high note. Give it a try – your mornings will never be the same.
Print
Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
Chicken Shawarma Breakfast Bowls combine tender, spiced chicken strips with savory onions and a creamy tahini sauce, served over your choice of grains or greens for a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into thin strips
- 1 onion, sliced thin
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1.5 tsp turmeric
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp coriander
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp cinnamon
For the Tahini Sauce
- ½ cup tahini paste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove minced garlic
- ¼ cup water
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, juice of 1 lemon, salt, and all the spices (cumin, turmeric, paprika, coriander, crushed red pepper, ground cloves, and cinnamon). Add the thinly sliced chicken and onion, tossing thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Cover and let it marinate for 30 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and onions to the hot skillet, cooking for 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the chicken cooks through completely and turns golden brown while the onions become soft and caramelized.
- Prepare the Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini paste, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, minced garlic, water, and salt until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
- Assemble the Bowls: Serve the cooked chicken and onions over your preferred base, such as grains like rice or quinoa, or fresh greens. Drizzle generously with the tahini sauce. Optionally, add toppings like sliced avocado or a fried egg for extra richness.
- Enjoy: Dive into this flavor-packed and nutritious breakfast bowl that brings the vibrant taste of shawarma into your morning routine.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes helps infuse the flavors deeply.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for juicier results.
- Adjust crushed red pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Serve with warm pita bread or alongside fresh salad for a complete meal.
- The tahini sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
