Trader Joe's Chicken Shawarma Paired with Lemon Rice

The Magic of Trader Joe's Chicken Shawarma and Lemon Rice

Have you heard of Naf Naf grill? This homemade bowl captures its essence, starring Trader Joe's chicken shawarma. There's plenty to love!

This bowl is a mighty combination, packed with:

• Lemon rice – delicately fragrant, airy, and visually stunning
• Crisp, golden chicken shawarma
• Cabbage slaw that's nearly pickled
• A tangy, creamy feta cucumber sauce

I'm a big advocate for time-saving tricks (wink), which is why I frequently rely on Trader Joe's chicken shawarma for these bowls.

For the quickest route to a satisfying meal, simply prepare the chicken and lemon rice, then top with store-bought tzatziki and fresh cucumbers. The chicken and rice form an excellent foundation.

But if you're willing to whip up the cabbage slaw and feta cucumber sauce, you're in for an extraordinary treat.

From the first time I prepared this, I knew it would become a blog recipe. When I did a final taste test with my friend Amanda, we were absolutely thrilled. This combination is incredibly delicious.

Amanda noted that leftovers would be fantastic in a wrap, and now I can't stop thinking about it. Anyone want to try that?

Hope you enjoy it. Here's to shortcuts and nourishing meals!

For those who prefer homemade chicken shawarma, I've linked my favorite marinade for chicken breasts—perfect for this dish.

Print Recipe

Shawarma Chicken with Lemon Rice

Rating: 5 Stars, 4 Stars, 3 Stars, 2 Stars, 1 Star

4 reviews – average 5 stars

• Recipe by: Lindsay
• Time Needed: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Print

Pin

Overview

Simple Trader Joe's chicken shawarma bowls featuring airy lemon rice, crisp cabbage slaw, and a smooth feta cucumber sauce. Quick, tasty, and ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients List

Units: US

Chicken Shawarma:

• One package of Trader Joe's chicken shawarma (or refer to the notes for a homemade version)

Lemon Rice:

• 1½ cups long-grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon onion powder and 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon chicken base
• 2¼ cups water
• Zest from one lemon

Cabbage Salad:

• 2 cups finely shredded red cabbage
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon sugar

Feta Cucumber Sauce:

• ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or mayonnaise
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 3 tablespoons fresh dill)

Cook Mode: Prevent screen from dimming

Directions

1. Prepare Lemon Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly in a colander. Transfer to a medium pot and stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, Better Than Bouillon, and water. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on very low heat for 18 minutes. Once done, fold in lemon zest and fluff with a fork.
2. Make Cabbage Slaw: Combine cabbage, white vinegar, water, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Toss well, adjust seasoning to taste, and set aside to rest while you finish the rest.
3. Prepare Feta Cucumber Sauce: Mix grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, olive oil (or mayo), feta, garlic, and dill. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Cook Chicken Shawarma (Air Fryer): I save this for last so it stays hot. Air fry at 390°F for 9–10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is deeply browned. Alternatively, oven method: place rack in top third of oven, bake at 450°F for 15 minutes, then broil on low for 3–5 minutes until browned. Let rest a few minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
5. Assemble Bowls: Spoon rice onto plates, top with chopped chicken shawarma, add a portion of cabbage slaw, and finish with a dollop of feta cucumber sauce.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Meal Type: Dinner
• Cooking Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Keywords: chicken shawarma, chicken recipe, air fryer chicken

Common Questions About This Chicken Shawarma

What if I can't find Trader Joe's? How do I prepare the chicken?

The marinade from my chicken pitas recipe works wonderfully here—check it out!

Is it okay to use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely! Trader Joe's also sells tzatziki.

Can this be made vegan?

Swap the chicken for plant-based options such as falafel (also from Trader Joe's), marinated chickpeas, air-fried tofu, or roasted vegetables. Trader Joe's also offers an excellent vegan tzatziki.

How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers stay fresh for 3–4 days. I recommend storing components separately so you can reheat the chicken and rice before adding the cabbage and sauce. Note that the cabbage will continue to pickle over time.

Three Additional Trader Joe's Shortcut Recipes

Focaccia Turkey Sandwich

Chili Sauce Wontons

Egg and Scallion Pancake