why make this recipe

Chicken Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that brings amazing flavors to your table. This recipe is great because it is easy to make at home. The marinated chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with herbs and spices. Plus, the creamy garlic sauce adds a delicious finish. It’s perfect for family dinners, meals with friends, or even for meal prep!

how to make Chicken Shawarma

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
4 cloves, minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pita bread or flatbread, for serving
Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion, for serving
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Creamy Garlic Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
4 cloves, minced garlic
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, allspice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is better for the best flavor.
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using the oven, set it to 400°F (200°C).
Grill the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked. If using the oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Once the chicken is cooked, slice it thinly.
Serve the sliced chicken on warmed pita or flatbread. Top with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce.
Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before enjoying your delicious Chicken Shawarma.

how to serve Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma is best served warm. You can use pita bread or flatbread as a base and add sliced veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce on top for extra flavor. This dish can also be served with sides like rice, salads, or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

how to store Chicken Shawarma

If you have leftovers, you can store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen as it sits. The creamy garlic sauce can also be stored in a separate container in the fridge for about a week. To reheat the chicken, you can microwave it or warm it in a skillet.

tips to make Chicken Shawarma

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Feel free to adjust the spices in the marinade based on your taste preferences.
Using a meat thermometer can help ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken over charcoal.

variation

You can also make Chicken Shawarma with other meats like beef or lamb. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using marinated grilled vegetables or tofu.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A1: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be less juicy. Marinating them properly will help with flavor and tenderness.

Q2: Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

Q3: What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
A3: You can serve it with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. Hummus and tabbouleh are also great accompaniments.