Are you ready to elevate your meal prep game with a burst of Middle Eastern flavor? Our Chicken Shawarma Meal Prep Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect solution for busy weekdays. With tender, spice-infused chicken thighs, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies drizzled with creamy tahini sauce, these bowls are a feast for the senses. Whether you're looking to impress your family or just want a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe is a must-try! Dive into the full recipe and discover how to bring the taste of the Middle East to your kitchen in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup tahini
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and patting them dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shawarma spice mix, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions. For added flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of water.
- Dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes and halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside for assembly.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- In a small bowl, whisk the tahini with a little water to create a smooth, drizzleable sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the meal prep bowls by dividing the rice evenly among four containers. Top with sliced chicken, diced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle tahini sauce over each bowl. If meal prepping, keep the tahini sauce in a separate small container to maintain freshness.
- Allow the bowls to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. These meal prep bowls will stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Marinate for More Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the shawarma spice mix and a bit of olive oil for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will enhance the spices' depth and tenderness of the meat.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.
- Customize Your Bowls: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or red onions for added color and nutrition. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous for a different texture.
- Make Extra Tahini Sauce: If you love the tahini sauce, double the recipe! It makes a great dressing for salads or a dip for veggies throughout the week.
- Store Properly: To keep your meal prep bowls fresh, store the tahini sauce separately until you're ready to eat. This will prevent the veggies from getting soggy and maintain the crispness.
- Reheat with Care: When reheating your meal prep bowls, do so gently in the microwave or oven to avoid drying out the chicken. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 125mg
