Why Make This Recipe
Air fryer chicken shawarma bowls are a delicious and healthy option that brings a taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen. This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer cooks the chicken to tender perfection while keeping it crispy on the outside. You can customize the bowl with fresh ingredients, making it a colorful and satisfying meal.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (0.45 kg) boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-size chunks)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp allspice
- 1.5 cup grape (cherry) tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cauliflower rice (cooked)
- 1 small English cucumber (sliced)
- 2 cups salad greens
- 1 cup pitted olives
- 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2-3 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of oregano (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken pieces with vegetable oil, oregano, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, kosher salt, and allspice. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
- In the meantime, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and cook the cauliflower rice if you haven’t done so already.
- In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Once the chicken is done, assemble your bowls. Start with a base of salad greens, then add cauliflower rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives. Top with the air-fried chicken and a drizzle of the yogurt sauce.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Serve the shawarma bowls warm. You can also serve additional lemon wedges on the side for extra zest. This dish is great for family dinners or meal prep, as you can make several bowls at once.
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Store any leftover chicken and veggies in airtight containers. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Bowl
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for more tasty results.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or grains to customize the bowl.
Variation
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer. Additionally, add more toppings like avocado or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can use beef or lamb if you prefer, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken shawarma bowl is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your yogurt and any extra ingredients are gluten-free.
3. Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the chicken on a lined sheet for about 25-30 minutes, until cooked through.

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken pieces with vegetable oil, oregano, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, kosher salt, and allspice. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- While the air fryer heats, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and cook the cauliflower rice if you haven't done so already.
- In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once the chicken is done, assemble your bowls. Start with a base of salad greens, then add cauliflower rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives. Top with the air-fried chicken and a drizzle of the yogurt sauce.