This Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad features juicy grilled chicken shawarma kebabs served over a bed of fresh greens, topped with creamy feta and tangy tzatziki. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant ingredients and satisfying taste.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken Shawarma Kebabs
- For the Salad
- For Serving
- For Garnish
- How to Make Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Step 3: Prepare the Salad
- Step 4: Assemble Your Salad
- How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Individual Bowls
- Family Style Platter
- Wrap It Up
- With Extra Tzatziki
- As a Meal Prep Option
- How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Reheating Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad?
- How do I customize my Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad?
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- What are some good side dishes for Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed experience: The combination of spices in the chicken marinade brings bold flavors that elevate the entire dish.
- Quick preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Healthy and nutritious: Loaded with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this salad offers a healthy option without compromising on taste.
- Customizable ingredients: Feel free to adjust the vegetables or toppings according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time for convenient lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad, you will need some essential kitchen tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for getting that perfect char on the chicken, which enhances flavor.
- Mixing bowls: Needed for marinating the chicken and mixing the salad dressing efficiently.
- Skewers: Help in grilling chicken pieces evenly and make serving easier.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma Kebabs
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Juice from 1 medium lemon
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Salad
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 3 Persian cucumbers (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (the kind that comes in brine, crumbled)
- 4 cups butter lettuce (torn)
For Serving
- 1 cup Skinny Tzatziki (from my blog)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. Whisk until combined.
- Add minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk again.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces ensuring they are evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-low heat.
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers and discard any remaining marinade.
- Grill the chicken skewers while turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through, about 15 to 18 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad
- In another medium bowl, whisk together olive oil and red apple vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
- Add chopped cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
Step 4: Assemble Your Salad
- Divide torn butter lettuce among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with tomato salad mixture, crumbled feta cheese, and grilled chicken skewers.
- Serve with Skinny Tzatziki on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad!
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
Serving Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad is all about enhancing its flavors and textures. This vibrant dish can be enjoyed in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences.
Individual Bowls
- Each person can have their own bowl filled with a generous portion of butter lettuce, topped with grilled chicken, feta, and the refreshing vegetable salad.
Family Style Platter
- Arrange all the components on a large platter. Allow guests to build their own salads by choosing their favorite toppings, making it a fun and interactive meal.
Wrap It Up
- For a delicious twist, serve the salad ingredients in a pita or wrap. Simply pile the salad mix and chicken into a warm pita for a handheld meal.
With Extra Tzatziki
- Serve extra Skinny Tzatziki on the side for dipping or drizzling over the salad. The creamy sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices of the chicken.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Pack individual servings of Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
Perfecting your Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always delicious.
- Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate thoroughly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in taste. Choose ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for maximum freshness.
- Control Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium-low heat to avoid burning the chicken while ensuring it’s cooked through.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Adding more red pepper flakes can give it an extra kick!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad can enhance your meal. Consider these options for a complete dining experience.
- Hummus: A creamy chickpea dip that pairs well with pita bread or fresh veggies.
- Pita Chips: Crunchy and flavorful, they provide an excellent contrast to the salad’s textures.
- Quinoa Tabouli: A refreshing side made with quinoa, parsley, and lemon adds brightness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer great flavor and nutrition.
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip works wonderfully as an accompaniment or spread.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites add an authentic Mediterranean flair to your table.
- Olive Tapenade: Rich in flavor, this spread enhances any bread served alongside your meal.
- Fried Eggplant Slices: Crispy eggplant adds texture and complements the spices in the salad beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste.
- Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many chicken pieces on the grill at once can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect char.
- Using the wrong type of chicken: Opting for chicken breasts instead of thighs may dry out your kebabs. Stick with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can compromise the salad’s freshness. Always choose crisp, vibrant ingredients for maximum flavor and nutrition.
- Forgetting about seasoning: Not seasoning the salad properly can make it taste flat. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they are key to enhancing flavors.
- Serving without Tzatziki: Skipping this creamy sauce can take away from the Mediterranean experience. Always serve your Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad with a generous side of Tzatziki.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep Tzatziki separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without toppings.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad?
Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring grilled chicken shawarma served over a fresh salad with feta cheese and tzatziki sauce.
How do I customize my Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad?
Feel free to add any of your favorite salad ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or olives. You can also swap out proteins or use different dressings based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and salad components ahead of time. Just store them separately and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
What are some good side dishes for Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad?
Consider serving it with pita bread, hummus, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish allows you to enjoy juicy grilled chicken along with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your tastes. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—your taste buds will thank you!
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Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad, a Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The bold spices in the chicken marinade create an unforgettable flavor experience, while the crisp greens and tangy feta add delightful textures. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a dinner party, this salad is versatile and customizable to suit your taste. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Fresh vegetables (Persian cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion)
- Feta cheese
- Butter lettuce
- Tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and marinate with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-low heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 15-18 minutes until cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, mix olive oil and vinegar; toss with chopped vegetables.
- Assemble by dividing torn butter lettuce in bowls, adding grilled chicken, vegetable mixture, and crumbled feta on top.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 525
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 140mg