Lemon Herb Chicken Shawarma Casserole Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole takes everything we adore about a classic shawarma feast—lively spices, juicy chicken, fresh veggies—and bakes it up with golden rice for the most irresistible, hands-off comfort meal. You get all the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean, with way less fuss and a whole lot more family appeal!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This isn’t one of those never-ending ingredient lists! Each component plays a special role in building the iconic taste, texture, and vibrance that makes Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole such a showstopper—you’ll love how easily these everyday pantry heroes work together.

• Fresh lemon juice: Adds bright, citrusy tang and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
• Olive oil: A must-have for richness and that signature Mediterranean mouthfeel.
• Ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, red pepper flakes: This aromatic spice squad brings classic shawarma notes—warmth, smokiness, subtle heat, and just a hint of the exotic.
• Sea salt: Brings all the flavors into focus and makes each bite pop.
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Stay ultra-juicy throughout baking and soak up every bit of marinade.
• Zucchini: Adds color, a hint of sweetness, and keeps the casserole nice and moist.
• Arborio rice: Plumps up in the tangy, spiced stock for creamy, satisfying texture (long-grain rice works but Arborio’s especially dreamy!).
• Low FODMAP chicken stock: Steeps the rice and veggies in savory flavor while keeping the dish gut-friendly.
• Fresh parsley or mint: Herbs bring freshness and a lovely green finish.
• Kirby cucumbers and plum tomatoes: For the topping—these add crunch, brightness, and a pop of color right before serving.

Variations

The beauty of Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole is how easy it is to play around—switch up ingredients to fit dietary needs or use up what you have. It’s the kind of dish you can truly make your own!

• Swap the protein: Try boneless chicken breasts, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a plant-based spin.
• Grain alternatives: Use quinoa, brown rice, or bulgur to tweak both texture and nutrition.
• All the veggies: Bell peppers, eggplant, or even carrots fit right in for extra color and bite.
• Dairy-free: Go for a plant-based yogurt in the white sauce for an easy swap.
• Add-ins: Not low FODMAP? Toss in minced garlic or thinly sliced red onion for added punch.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, sea salt, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Add the chicken thighs, turning them until every piece shimmers with marinade. Let them soak up all those flavors for at least 30 minutes—or up to overnight for even deeper taste. Your kitchen will smell like a spice market!

Step 2: Set Up the Casserole Base

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Remove the marinated chicken and place it on a plate, letting any excess marinade drip off. Add the diced zucchini, Arborio rice, low FODMAP chicken stock, and half the chopped parsley or mint right into the remaining marinade. Gently fold together so the rice and veggies are well coated. Spread this mixture evenly in a casserole dish or oven-proof skillet.

Step 3: Nestle and Bake

Snuggle the marinated chicken thighs into the rice and zucchini mixture. Place the dish into the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when most of the liquid is absorbed, the rice is creamy and tender, and the whole kitchen smells warm and inviting. Let it rest for a few minutes out of the oven while you prep your toppings.

Step 4: Fresh Toppings & Finish

While the casserole bakes, toss chopped cucumbers and tomatoes in a bit of olive oil, salt, and (optional) a splash of lemon juice. After resting, pile this salad over the casserole for cool contrast. If you want that true shawarma look, slice the chicken thinly and fan it back over the rice. Sprinkle with the rest of the fresh herbs, and don’t forget a drizzle of white sauce or hot sauce to finish.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole

Garnishes

The crowning touch for Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole is a handful of fresh herbs (parsley or mint), plenty of the crisp cucumber-tomato topping, and a generous drizzle of tangy white sauce or silky tahini. A sprinkle of sumac or a pinch of paprika over everything is a chef’s kiss if you want to amp up the color and zing!

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal unto itself, but if you want something on the side, warm gluten-free pita triangles, a vibrant tabbouleh, or a simple leafy salad with lemon-olive oil dressing fit the sunny mood perfectly. Even a little bowl of olives or pickled turnips brings an authentic Mediterranean spread to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, bring the entire hot skillet to the table and let guests scoop their own, topping however they like. Or, for lunchboxes, spoon servings into meal-prep containers with toppings on the side. Feeling extra? Layer sliced chicken over the rice and arrange the toppings in beautiful stripes for a total “wow” effect—perfect for sharing on Instagram or at a potluck.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole keeps like a dream—simply pop any cooled leftovers into a lidded container and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep the fresh cucumber-tomato salad and sauces separate so they stay crisp and vibrant.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled casserole (without toppings) into airtight containers. It’ll stay delicious in the freezer for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge—then warm, garnish, and enjoy as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and microwave individual portions, or pop the whole casserole (covered with foil) into a 350°F oven until warmed through. Add toppings fresh, just before serving, to keep every bite bright and lively.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something hearty, sunny, and packed with craveable flavors, you’ve got to try this Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, and once you taste it, I promise you’ll want to make it again (and again)!

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