June 24, 2026 · 10 min

Turmeric Couscous Chicken Shawarma Bowls with Garlic White Sauce

Lunch10 min1728 cal / serving

Get ready for a bowl that packs a punch of Mediterranean flavor. This dish layers fluffy turmeric-spiced couscous with tender yogurt-marinated chicken strips, lemony roasted zucchini and tomato, creamy hummus and a drizzle of garlicky white sauce and hot sauce. Every bite is a burst of savory, tangy and spicy goodness.

It’s a complete meal in one bowl that’s both satisfying and vibrant. The combination of textures-from the soft couscous to the juicy chicken and crisp veggies-makes this a weeknight winner. Plus, it comes together quickly with simple ingredients.


Recipe details

Lunch10 min1728 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories1728 kcalProtein68.4 gFat143.6 gCarbs38.8 gSugar10.9 gFiber3.2 gSodium2378 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: containsMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies.


Ingredients

Hummus4 tablespoon HummusView ingredient guide
Sour Cream4 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Lemon1 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Yogurt4 tablespoon YogurtView ingredient guide
Garlic1 clove GarlicView ingredient guide
Mini Cucumber1 unit Mini CucumberView ingredient guide
French Couscous2.5 ounce French CouscousView ingredient guide
Tomato1 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Chicken Cutlets10 ounce Chicken CutletsView ingredient guide
Hot Sauce1 teaspoon Hot SauceView ingredient guide
Shallot1 unit ShallotView ingredient guide
Butter1 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guide
Salt4 teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine yogurt, half the shawarma spice blend and a pinch of salt. Add chicken cutlets and turn to coat. Set aside to marinate.
  3. Halve the lemon. Cut one half into wedges for serving; juice the other half. Dice the tomato and cucumber into small cubes. Finely chop the shallot. Mince the garlic.
  4. In a medium pot, bring 1/2 cup water and chicken stock concentrate to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover and remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in butter and a pinch of salt.
  5. On the prepared baking sheet, toss zucchini (if using) and tomato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining shawarma spice blend and salt. Roast for 10 minutes.
  6. While vegetables roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken cutlets until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.
  7. In a small bowl, mix sour cream, minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice to make the white sauce. Season with salt.
  8. To assemble bowls: divide couscous among bowls. Top with sliced chicken, roasted vegetables, a dollop of hummus and a drizzle of white sauce. Add hot sauce and lemon wedges on the side. Serve.

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

If you don’t have shawarma spice blend, substitute with a mix of cumin, coriander, paprika and turmeric.

To make the white sauce thicker, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

FAQ

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute with lamb, beef or even tofu. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of couscous?

Quinoa, rice or bulgur wheat work well as substitutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

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