High Protein Chicken Shawarma Meal Prep

High Protein Chicken Shawarma Meal Prep is a medium Mediterranean recipe that serves 5. 700 calories per serving. Recipe by Chef Jack Ovens on YouTube.

Prep: 57 min | Cook: 31 min | Total: 1 hr 43 min

Cost: $13.36 total, $2.67 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 kg Boneless Skinless Chicken Thigh (Can substitute with chicken breast or turkey thigh)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground Coriander
  • 0.5 tsp Ground Turmeric
  • 5 cloves Garlic (Fresh, peeled and grated)
  • 1 Lemon (Juice and zest used in multiple components)
  • 250 g Greek Yogurt (High Protein) (Approximately 2 tbsp for marinate + 200 g for sauce)
  • to taste Salt
  • 10 cracks Cracked Black Pepper (Approximately 10 cracks per batch)
  • 300 g Jasmine Rice (Washed; about 1½ cups)
  • 550 ml Cold Water or Stock (Use stock for extra flavor)
  • 5 g Flat‑Leaf Parsley (Roughly chopped)
  • 120 g Iceberg Lettuce (Shredded (chiffonade))
  • ½ Cucumber (Continental) (Diced into large pieces)
  • 200 g Cherry Tomatoes (Halved)
  • as needed Spray Oil (For pan lubrication)

Instructions

  1. Slice and Marinate Chicken

    Trim the chicken thighs into thin strips (or dice). Place in a large mixing bowl, add olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, grated garlic, lemon juice (≈1½ tbsp), Greek yogurt, salt and about 10 cracks of black pepper. Mix until evenly coated.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Prepare Yogurt Sauce

    In a separate bowl combine 200 g Greek yogurt, one grated garlic clove, 1 tbsp lemon juice, a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper. Stir until smooth, breaking up any garlic clumps.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Make Side Salad (Optional)

    Shred the iceberg lettuce, dice half a cucumber into bite‑size pieces, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Toss together in a bowl and set aside.

    Time: PT10M

  4. Cook Jasmine Rice

    Rinse 300 g jasmine rice until water runs clear. In a saucepan add rice, 550 ml cold water (or stock) and a pinch of salt. Bring to a rapid boil over high heat, then cover, reduce to low, and simmer for 12 minutes without lifting the lid. Turn off heat and let steam, lid on, for 5‑10 minutes.

    Time: PT19M

    Temperature: high heat to boil, then low

  5. Cook First Batch of Chicken

    Heat a large skillet over high heat, lightly spray with oil. Add half of the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook without moving for about 2 minutes to develop color, then stir and continue cooking for another 3‑4 minutes until lightly charred and cooked through.

    Time: PT6M

    Temperature: medium‑high

  6. Cook Second Batch of Chicken

    Repeat the same process with the remaining chicken strips.

    Time: PT6M

    Temperature: medium‑high

  7. Finish Rice with Lemon‑Garlic‑Parsley Flavour

    Remove the lid from the cooked rice. Stir in zest of half a lemon (≈¾ of the zest), 1 tbsp lemon juice, one grated garlic clove, and the chopped flat‑leaf parsley. Season with salt and white or black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Assemble Bowls

    Divide the flavored rice among five 750 ml containers, creating a base. Top each with a portion of cooked chicken (including any pan juices), a drizzle of yogurt sauce, and the optional salad mixture. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a pinch of cracked black pepper.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Cool and Store

    Let the bowls sit at room temperature for about 15‑20 minutes, then seal lids. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 4 months.

    Time: PT15M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
700
Protein
45 g
Carbohydrates
70 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
4 g

Dietary info: High‑protein, Gluten‑free

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 9, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

High Protein Chicken Shawarma Meal Prep

Recipe by Chef Jack Ovens

A budget‑friendly Mediterranean‑inspired bowl featuring marinated chicken thigh, fluffy lemon‑garlic parsley jasmine rice, a tangy Greek‑yogurt sauce, and a fresh side salad. Perfect for meal‑prepping and quick reheating.

MediumMediterraneanServes 5

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
35m
Prep
39m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 24m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$13.36
Total cost
$2.67
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes
  • Cooking the rice with a proper steam finish
  • Achieving a light char on the chicken strips
  • Incorporating lemon zest and garlic into the rice without clumping

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw chicken with separate cutting board and wash hands thoroughly to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Turmeric can stain skin and clothing; wear gloves or wash hands promptly.
  • Steam from the rice pot is extremely hot; lift lid away from you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken Schwama Bowls in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

Chicken Schwama is a modern twist on traditional Middle‑Eastern shawarma, using thinly sliced marinated chicken that’s quickly pan‑seared. The bowl format reflects contemporary meal‑prep trends while preserving the bold spices and tangy lemon that are hallmarks of Mediterranean street food.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of chicken shawma (schwama) in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

In the Levant, shawma is often cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in flatbread with tahini. In Turkey, a similar dish called döner uses beef or lamb and is spiced with sumac. This bowl version swaps the rotisserie for a skillet and pairs the meat with lemon‑garlic parsley rice for a fresh, portable meal.

cultural
Q

How is Chicken Schwama traditionally served in Mediterranean street markets?

A

Traditionally, the spiced chicken is sliced thin and wrapped in pita or flatbread with pickles, tomatoes, and a drizzle of garlic‑yogurt sauce. The bowl adaptation keeps the same flavors but layers the rice, chicken, sauce, and salad in a single container for convenience.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Chicken Schwama Bowls associated with in Mediterranean culture?

A

While not tied to a specific holiday, chicken shawma is a popular everyday lunch and dinner option across the Mediterranean. It’s also served at family gatherings and casual gatherings because it’s quick to prepare in large batches.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for authentic Mediterranean Chicken Schwama and what are acceptable substitutes?

A

Key ingredients include boneless chicken thigh, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, fresh lemon, garlic, and Greek yogurt. Substitutes can be chicken breast (leaner), regular paprika with a dash of liquid smoke, or plain yogurt if high‑protein yogurt isn’t available.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Schwama Bowls at home?

A

Common errors include overcrowding the pan, which prevents caramelization; overcooking the chicken, especially breast; using too much water for the rice, leading to mushiness; and not letting the marinated chicken rest long enough for the spices to penetrate.

technical
Q

Why does this Chicken Schwama Bowl recipe use a skillet instead of a rotisserie for cooking the chicken?

A

A skillet allows home cooks to achieve a quick, light char and caramelization without specialized equipment. The high heat mimics the searing effect of a rotisserie while keeping the recipe accessible and fast.

technical
Q

Can I make the Chicken Schwama Bowls ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Marinate the chicken up to 48 hours, cook the rice and chicken, then assemble the bowls. Store sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months. Reheat in the microwave for about 3 minutes, stirring halfway.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the lemon garlic parsley rice is done?

A

The rice should be fluffy with each grain separate, lightly scented with lemon zest, and speckled with bright green parsley. There should be no clumps of garlic; the rice will have a subtle yellow hue from the turmeric.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Chef Jack Ovens specialize in?

A

Chef Jack Ovens focuses on affordable, high‑protein meal‑prep recipes that blend classic comfort flavors with modern convenience. The channel emphasizes quick techniques, budget‑friendly ingredients, and clear step‑by‑step visuals.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Chef Jack Ovens' approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other Mediterranean cooking channels?

A

Chef Jack Ovens prioritizes meal‑prep scalability and cost efficiency, often using pantry staples and high‑protein Greek yogurt. Other Mediterranean channels may focus more on traditional techniques or elaborate plating, whereas Chef Jack streamlines the process for everyday home cooks.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

High-Protein Sweet and Sour Chicken Meal Prep
44

High-Protein Sweet and Sour Chicken Meal Prep

A healthy, high-protein sweet and sour chicken meal prep served with fluffy basmati rice. Packed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a homemade sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for batch cooking and storing for the week.

1 hr 10 minServes 5$19
Asian-inspired
High-Protein Sweet and Sour Chicken Meal Prep
26

High-Protein Sweet and Sour Chicken Meal Prep

A healthy, high-protein sweet and sour chicken meal prep served with fluffy basmati rice. Packed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a homemade sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for batch cooking and storing for the week.

1 hr 10 minServes 5$19
Asian-inspired
High Protein Meal Prep Honey Lemon Chicken! ONLY 415 Calories
8

High Protein Meal Prep Honey Lemon Chicken! ONLY 415 Calories

A quick, high‑protein meal‑prep friendly chicken dish that’s sweet, tangy, and only about 400 calories per serving. Cubed chicken is seasoned, pan‑seared, then tossed with honey and lemon for a sticky glaze, mixed with sautéed onion, bell pepper, and rice, and finished with fresh green onion.

45 minServes 4$7
Asian Fusion
MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep! ONLY 511 CALS
8

MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep! ONLY 511 CALS

A protein‑packed twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring tender chicken cubes glazed in honey‑barbecue sauce and a creamy low‑fat cheese sauce. At roughly 500 calories per serving, this dish is perfect for meal‑prepping and fits a high‑protein, lower‑fat diet.

48 minServes 4$10
American
TASTIEST High Protein Chicken Fajita Mac N Cheese Meal Prep! Only 590 Calories
7

TASTIEST High Protein Chicken Fajita Mac N Cheese Meal Prep! Only 590 Calories

A creamy, flavorful, high‑protein twist on classic mac and cheese that packs the bold taste of chicken fajitas. Each serving is about 590 calories, perfect for meal‑prepping a week of tasty, protein‑rich comfort food.

55 minServes 4$17
Tex-Mex
HIGH PROTEIN Meal Prep Marry Me Chicken In 25 Minutes
8

HIGH PROTEIN Meal Prep Marry Me Chicken In 25 Minutes

A high‑protein, low‑fat version of the popular Marry Me Chicken, made with cottage cheese for a creamy sauce and tossed with pasta, sundried tomatoes, and spinach. Each serving packs 650 calories, 64 g protein and only 11 g fat – perfect for meal‑prep and macro‑friendly eating.

52 minServes 5$21
Italian‑American
This HACK will cut your calories in HALF! Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep I High Protein & Low Carb
6

This HACK will cut your calories in HALF! Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep I High Protein & Low Carb

A keto‑friendly, low‑calorie version of the classic Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo using broccoli instead of pasta. Tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce made lighter with unsweetened almond milk, and a cheesy mozzarella topping make this comforting casserole perfect for meal‑prep, weight‑loss, or diabetic‑friendly dining.

62 minServes 4$13
Italian
HIGH PROTEIN Thai Green Chicken Curry Meal Prep
14

HIGH PROTEIN Thai Green Chicken Curry Meal Prep

A protein‑rich Thai green chicken curry made for meal‑prep. Tender chicken thigh and eggplant soak up fragrant green curry paste, coconut milk, and lime leaves, served over fluffy jasmine rice. Perfect for the fridge or freezer and quick microwave reheating.

57 minServes 5$20
Thai