Low Carb Chicken Shawarma Bowls

This Low Carb Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a perfect balance of bold Middle Eastern flavors and fresh, crisp vegetables. The marinated, pan-seared chicken brings a smoky depth, while the tangy mint garlic sauce ties everything together with a refreshing kick. Every bite is packed with protein, making it a fantastic meal prep option that keeps you full and satisfied.

Best of all, this dish is fully customizable! Swap in your favorite greens, add a dollop of hummus, or throw in some roasted chickpeas for an extra crunch. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just looking for a quick and nutritious meal, this shawarma bowl is sure to become a new favorite in your weekly rotation!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped mint
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Juice of one lemon
• A pinch of salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 large chicken breasts, butterflied into 4 fillets

For the Mint Garlic Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Sea salt, to taste

For the Bowls:

• 8 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups cucumbers, chopped
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 8 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
• Lemon slices and hummus (optional)

Directions:

For the Mint Garlic Sauce:

1. Whisk together all sauce ingredients. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour (or up to one day ahead).

For the Chicken:

1. In a bowl or plastic bag, mix mint, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, olive oil, and white wine.
2. Add chicken fillets and marinate in the fridge for 2-6 hours.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat, adding a small amount of olive oil.
4. Cook chicken on both sides until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

For the Bowls:

1. If prepping ahead, chop and store veggies separately.
2. In each bowl, arrange 2 cups of greens, 1/2 cup cucumbers, 1/2 cup tomatoes, sliced red onion, 2 tablespoons feta, and one sliced chicken fillet.
3. Drizzle with Mint Garlic Sauce and serve with lemon slices and hummus if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4

What Are Low Carb Chicken Shawarma Bowls?

Low Carb Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a healthy, flavorful meal inspired by traditional Middle Eastern shawarma. Instead of wrapping the chicken in pita or flatbread, this dish is served as a fresh, protein-packed salad bowl with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The star of the dish is marinated, pan-seared chicken, which is seasoned with a blend of herbs, garlic, and lemon juice, then paired with crisp veggies, feta cheese, and a creamy mint garlic sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, this dish supports a balanced diet.
✅ Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: No pita or rice means fewer carbs without sacrificing flavor.
✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
✅ Versatile: You can customize the ingredients based on your preference or dietary needs.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead and enjoying throughout the week.

What Makes This Dish Special?

This shawarma bowl stands out because of its bold and refreshing flavors. The chicken is marinated with fresh mint, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice, which enhances its juiciness and adds a zesty, herbaceous taste. The creamy mint garlic sauce elevates the dish, adding a cooling contrast to the warm, spiced chicken. Combined with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta, each bite is packed with texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp, lamb, tofu, or falafel for a vegetarian version.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt for the sauce.
• Extra Crunch: Add roasted chickpeas, toasted almonds, or sunflower seeds for more texture.
• More Flavor: Drizzle with tahini or a squeeze of extra lemon for an additional boost of flavor.
• Grain Addition: If you’re not strictly low-carb, add cooked quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice to make it a heartier meal.

How to Store & Meal Prep This Recipe

• Refrigeration: Store the ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: The chicken can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Sauce Storage: Keep the mint garlic sauce refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
• Meal Prep Tip: Assemble the bowls without dressing, and add the sauce just before serving to keep the veggies crisp and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of hummus and warm grilled vegetables.
• Pair with a simple cucumber yogurt dip or tzatziki for extra creaminess.
• Enjoy as a lettuce wrap by filling large romaine or iceberg leaves with the shawarma mixture.

Key Ingredients & Their Benefits

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken Breast: A lean, high-protein choice that stays tender when marinated properly.
• Garlic & Lemon Juice: Adds bright, aromatic flavor and tenderizes the meat.
• Olive Oil: Helps lock in moisture while cooking.
• White Wine (Optional): Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Fresh Herbs (Mint & Parsley): Provide a fresh, vibrant taste that complements the shawarma seasoning.

For the Mint Garlic Sauce:

• Greek Yogurt: A rich, creamy base packed with protein and probiotics.
• Fresh Mint & Parsley: Adds a cooling contrast to the warm spices in the dish.
• Garlic & Lemon Juice: Provides an extra punch of Mediterranean flavor.

For the Bowl Base:

• Mixed Greens: A combination of spinach, arugula, or romaine for freshness.
• Cherry Tomatoes & Cucumbers: Adds crunch and sweetness.
• Red Onion: Brings a bit of sharpness to balance the flavors.
• Feta Cheese: Creamy, tangy, and packed with Mediterranean flair.
• Lemon Slices & Hummus (Optional): Extra garnish for those who love a bold citrus or creamy hummus element.

How to Make It – Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Mint Garlic Sauce

• Mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped mint, parsley, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

2. Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl or plastic bag, combine mint, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and white wine.
• Add the butterflied chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated.
• Let marinate in the fridge for 2-6 hours (the longer, the better).

3. Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

4. Assemble the Bowls

• Divide mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and feta among serving bowls.
• Add sliced chicken on top.
• Drizzle with mint garlic sauce and serve with lemon slices and hummus (optional).

Serving Suggestions & Customization Options

• For Extra Crunch: Add roasted chickpeas or slivered almonds.
• For More Spice: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
• For a Heartier Meal: Serve with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or roasted sweet potatoes.
• For a Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and skip the feta cheese.
• For a Different Protein: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, lamb, tofu, or falafel.

How to Store & Meal Prep

✅ Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.
✅ Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
✅ Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months and thaw when needed.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

• High in Protein: Essential for muscle building and repair.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil, yogurt, and feta provide good fats that keep you full longer.
• Low in Carbs: Ideal for weight loss and blood sugar control.
• Packed with Antioxidants: Fresh herbs and vegetables offer a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion

These Low Carb Chicken Shawarma Bowls bring all the delicious flavors of shawarma in a light, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep-friendly lunch, or a keto-friendly option, this dish is versatile and perfect for any occasion.