Don't be intimidated by the ingredients list on this recipe - yes, they're plentiful, but it's largely due to the number of spices that come together to create an incredibly flavor-balanced shawarma bowl experience. This meal prep recipe takes about an hour start to finish (minus the marinade time for the chicken), but you'll celebrate every moment of effort when you sit down to a wholesome, healthy lunch every day of the week.
¼cpickled red onionswhole30 compliant (no sugar) - see ingredients section above for recipe recommendation
Instructions
Make the chicken shawarma. Combine lemon juice, avocado oil, salt, pepper, and spices in a large bowl and whisk thoroughly. Place the raw chicken thighs into the bowl and coat with marinade. Marinate at least a few hours, and up to overnight.
Heat the oven to 425°F. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place onto a rimmed baking sheet, leaving 2" between each thigh. Pour any excess marinade over the chicken. Bake for 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked throughout. Set aside to cool slightly, then cut agains the grain into ½" slices.
Prepare the cauliflower tabbouleh following the instructions in the linked post.
Make the tahini dressing. Combine the tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper into a blender along with ¼ cup of water to start. Blend until emulsified, adding additional water to reach desired consistency. Taste for seasoning and add additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice to preference.
Make the meal prep bowls: add 1 cup tabbouleh to the meal prep container, then top with 1⁄4 chicken shawarma. Add 1 oz olives, 1 tablespoon picked red onions, and pack 2 tablespoon dressing on the side.
Notes
Don't skimp on the marinating time - at least 3 hours, but 8+ (up to 12) is best.
Be sure to trim any visible fat from the chicken thighs - the fat gets chewy in the oven, and that's just a nope.
If you purchase pre-made cauliflower tabbouleh be sure to double-check the ingredients list for Whole30 compliance.
Bowls will keep in the fridge for about 5 days. Store the chicken separately and reheat for a warm meal, or eat it cold straight from the fridge.