Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. This healthy and flavorful meal combines tender grilled chicken with a rich, creamy garlic sauce, served over a bed of rice or quinoa and topped with fresh vegetables. Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, this recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine while being easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in under an hour.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices in the marinade creates a bold flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or quinoa, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, adding depth to the flavor.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for marinating your chicken evenly with all the spices.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables and chicken quick and safe.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.

Ingredients
A flavorful and healthy dish featuring grilled chicken shawarma served with garlic sauce and fresh vegetables.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade. Ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Grill each piece of marinated chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest and Slice
After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it thinly. This keeps it juicy.
Step 6: Make the Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, tahini, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls
In serving bowls, layer cooked rice or quinoa as a base. Top with slices of grilled chicken, cucumber slices, diced tomato, and thinly sliced red onion.
Step 8: Drizzle with Garlic Sauce
Generously drizzle your creamy garlic sauce over each bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
How to Serve Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Serving Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls is a delightful experience. These bowls are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste, making them perfect for any occasion.
Customize Your Bowl
- Add extra veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or radishes for added crunch and color.
- Top with feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Include avocado slices: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the dish.
Pair with Pita or Flatbread
- Serve with warm pita: Soft pita bread complements the chicken and sauce beautifully.
- Try whole wheat flatbread: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor to your meal.
Garnish Creatively
- Use fresh herbs: Cilantro or mint can elevate the dish with fresh notes.
- Drizzle with olive oil: A touch of high-quality olive oil adds richness and smoothness.
How to Perfect Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Creating the perfect Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.
- Marinate longer: For more flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for up to two hours.
- Use high heat: Preheating your grill ensures a good sear on the chicken, locking in moisture.
- Let it rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest helps retain its juices when sliced.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on personal preference for heat or flavor.
- Make ahead: Prepare the garlic sauce in advance for convenience and enhanced flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance the meal. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until golden, providing crunch and flavor.
- Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad that brightens up your bowl with zesty flavors.
- Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with veggies and pita chips, perfect for dipping.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon juice adds texture and brightness.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil is a deliciously simple side.
- Chickpea Salad: Protein-packed chickpeas tossed with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Ensure you allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to penetrate the meat.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for 6-7 minutes per side and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Not Letting Chicken Rest: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling can cause juices to escape, resulting in dryness. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can detract from your dish’s freshness. Always select crisp, vibrant produce for your bowls.
- Forgetting the Sauce: Skipping the creamy garlic sauce means missing out on a key flavor element. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Allow the chicken and vegetables to cool before sealing.
Freezing Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until everything is heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce healthy?
This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and includes fresh veggies, making it nutritious and balanced.
Can I customize my Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or grains like couscous or barley.
How do I ensure my chicken is tender in Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Marinating is key! Use acidic ingredients like lemon juice in your marinade to help tenderize the chicken.
Can I make Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store it separately until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Savoring this delicious dish offers a perfect mix of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. The versatility of these grilled chicken shawarma bowls allows you to customize them based on personal preferences or seasonal ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy garlic sauce!
Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Savor 2-Hour Grilled Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful meal that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. This dish features tender, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served over a wholesome base of rice or quinoa. Topped with fresh vegetables and drizzled with a rich, creamy garlic sauce, these bowls are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. With easy preparation and customizable options, you can enjoy this delightful recipe any night of the week.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tahini
- 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, and spices to create the marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
- For the sauce, mix yogurt, minced garlic, tahini, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Assemble bowls by layering rice or quinoa with sliced chicken and fresh vegetables. Drizzle with garlic sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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