Trader Joe’s has become a go-to for budget-conscious foodies and home cooks alike, thanks to its unique product lineup and global flavor offerings. From frozen favorites to seasonal sauces, Trader Joe’s ingredients lend themselves perfectly to creative, no-fuss recipes.
This guide features a mouthwatering dish: Spicy Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Lemon Tahini Dressing — a Mediterranean-inspired recipe bursting with bold spices, creamy textures, and fresh, crunchy veggies. It’s the perfect fusion of convenience and gourmet flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma:
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1 lb Trader Joe’s Chicken Thighs, boneless & skinless
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp Trader Joe’s Shawarma Seasoning Blend
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Salt & pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
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1 cup Trader Joe’s Brown Rice Medley (cooked)
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1 cup chopped cucumber
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1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
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Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
Lemon Tahini Dressing:
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1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Tahini
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1 garlic clove, minced
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp water (or more to thin)
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Salt to taste
Substitutions:
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Vegan? Swap chicken for Trader Joe’s Organic Baked Tofu or chickpeas.
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Gluten-free? Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice medley.
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Dairy-free? Skip the feta or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
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In a bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, shawarma seasoning, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge).
2. Cook the Chicken:
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Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear marinated chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
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Let rest, then slice into strips.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
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In a small bowl, whisk tahini, garlic, lemon juice, water, and salt.
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Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
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In each serving bowl, layer brown rice, sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and feta.
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Drizzle generously with tahini dressing and top with fresh herbs.
5. Final Touch:
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Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of Trader Joe’s Chili Lime seasoning for extra zing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Don’t skip the marination — it’s key for bold flavor.
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Don’t overcook the chicken — keep it juicy and tender.
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Don’t overdress the bowl — let the fresh ingredients shine.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear on the chicken.
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Warm your rice with a splash of water and cover to steam — it revives it perfectly.
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Mix up textures by adding crispy pita chips or toasted nuts for crunch.
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Batch cook the chicken and dressing for easy weekday meal prep.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian: Substitute grilled halloumi or falafel for the chicken.
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Low-carb: Swap out rice for cauliflower rice or lettuce greens.
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Fusion Twist: Add kimchi for a Korean-Med flavor kick or sriracha tahini for spice lovers.
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Kids’ Version: Serve the components deconstructed so kids can build their own bowl.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in wide bowls or mason jars for a fun presentation.
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Garnish with lemon wedges, extra herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika.
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Pair with:
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Trader Joe’s Garlic Naan
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Sparkling lemonade or mint tea
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A side of hummus and crudités
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Nutritional Information (Approx. per bowl):
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Calories: 540
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fats: 28g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugars: 4g
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Sodium: 720mg
Note: Values may vary depending on substitutions and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use Trader Joe’s pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes! While it won’t absorb marinade as well, it’s perfect for a quick version.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Store dressing separately to keep ingredients fresh.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Absolutely. Prep all components and store separately. Assemble just before serving.
Q: Is this meal freezer-friendly?
A: The cooked chicken can be frozen. Avoid freezing veggies and dressing for best texture.
Closing Thoughts
Trader Joe’s recipes like this Shawarma Bowl make healthy eating exciting, flavorful, and stress-free. With accessible ingredients and creative twists, it’s easy to turn everyday meals into something special.
✨ Fun Fact: The Shawarma spice blend used here is one of Trader Joe’s best-kept flavor secrets — try it on roasted veggies or scrambled eggs, too!
Don’t forget to share your version of this dish — tag your photos, leave a comment, or reach out with your own Trader Joe’s recipe hacks!
