Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe is an ultimately quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right into your kitchen. With Trader Joe’s marinated shawarma chicken thighs as the star ingredient, this recipe is perfect for busy days or when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. In this blog, I’ll share my step-by-step guide to creating this Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe dish and tips to make it your own. Whether you’re an expert, a seasoned cook, or just starting, this recipe is a must-try for everyone.
Ingredients for the Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe
- Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs – 1 pack (pre-marinated).
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons.
- Cooked Basmati Rice – 3 cups.
- Cucumber – 1, diced.
- Tomatoes – 2, chopped.
- Red Onion – ½, thinly sliced.
- Garlic Sauce or Tzatziki – ½ cup.
- Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped.
- Lemon Wedges – For serving.
- Optional Toppings – Hummus, pickled vegetables, or feta cheese.
Step-by-Step Guide on The Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat a large, clean skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add some fresh olive oil to the pan and allow it to heat. Add the Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 2: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the cooked chicken carefully from the pan and then let it rest for 5 minutes. This step keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
While the chicken rests, prepare your basmati rice according to package instructions. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep it warm for serving.
Step 4: Chop the Vegetables
Dice the cucumber, chop the tomatoes, and thinly slice the red Onion. Set the vegetables aside to assemble the bowl.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken
Slice the rested chicken thighs into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
Scoop the warm basmati rice into individual bowls. Arrange the sliced shawarma chicken on top of the rice. Add the diced cucumber, chopped tomatoes, and red onion around the chicken.
Step 7: Add Sauce and Garnish
Drizzle garlic sauce or tzatziki over the chicken and rice. Sprinkle fresh parsley carefully over the top and serve with freshly chopped lemon wedges on the side for extra flavour.
Serving and Enjoying
Ladle the Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe into bowls and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice. Each bite is an absolutely delightful blend of spices and freshness, making it a meal you’ll want to savor slowly.
Chef’s Tips for the Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe
- Preheat the Pan:
Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken for a perfect sear.
- Customize the Bowl:
For extra flavor, add toppings like hummus, pickled turnips, or feta cheese.
- Double the Recipe:
Cook extra chicken for wraps, salads, or sandwiches for easy meals later in the week.
- Use Fresh Lemon:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Try Other Grains:
Swap basmati rice for quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a twist.
Nutrition Information for The Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe
- Calories: 520 per serving (1 bowl).
- Protein: 35g.
- Carbohydrates: 45g.
- Fat: 20g.
- Saturated Fat: 4g.
- Cholesterol: 120mg.
- Sodium: 800mg.
- Dietary Fiber: 4g.
- Sugars: 6g.
- Vitamin A: 10% DV.
- Vitamin C: 20% DV.
- Calcium: 6% DV.
- Iron: 15% DV.
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Related Recipes for The Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe
- Chicken Gyro Bowl: A similar dish with gyro-seasoned chicken and pita bread.
- Falafel Rice Bowl: A vegetarian option with crispy falafel and tahini sauce.
- Mediterranean Chicken Wrap: Wrap shawarma chicken in a flatbread with veggies and sauce.
- Shawarma Salad Bowl: Serve the chicken over a fresh salad instead of rice.
- Lamb Shawarma Plate: Use marinated lamb for a rich and hearty variation.
- Vegan Shawarma Bowl: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh.
- Tabbouleh Bowl: Pair the chicken with tabbouleh salad and hummus.
- Shawarma-Stuffed Pita: Stuff the chicken and toppings into warm pita pockets.
- Grilled Vegetable Shawarma Bowl: Add roasted eggplant, zucchini, and peppers for extra veggies.
- Shawarma Nachos: Top pita chips with shawarma chicken, cheese, and tzatziki for a fun twist.
FAQ
1. Can I bake the shawarma chicken instead of frying it?
Ans: Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
2. What can I use instead of basmati rice?
Ans: You can substitute quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice.
3. How long does leftover shawarma chicken last?
Ans: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
4. Can I freeze cooked shawarma chicken?
Ans: Yes, freeze it for up to 2 months—reheat before serving.
5. What’s a good vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Ans: Use marinated tofu or roasted chickpeas instead of chicken.
Conclusion
The Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that generally brings the absolute essence of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. With just a few fresh ingredients and Trader Joe’s marinated chicken, you can create a delicious meal quickly. Whether hosting a dinner or preparing a quick lunch, this Easy Trader Joes Shawarma Chicken Recipe will impress. Try it today must and enjoy the delightful combination of spices, textures, and flavours!