Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Shawarma is a delicious, savory dish that brings the flavors of the Middle East right to your table. With tender, spiced chicken that’s been marinated for hours, grilled to perfection, and often served with fresh toppings, Chicken Shawarma is the ultimate comfort food for those who crave bold, aromatic flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish will be a guaranteed hit.

This recipe takes you step-by-step through the process of making Chicken Shawarma, with tips on marinating the chicken, cooking it to juicy perfection, and assembling the dish for the best possible flavor. Served in warm pita bread or flatbread, and paired with garlic sauce, pickled vegetables, and fresh veggies, Chicken Shawarma is a feast for the senses.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Shawarma

• Rich, Aromatic Flavors: The combination of spices, garlic, and lemon in the marinade creates a savory, tangy, and aromatic profile that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. The spices are bold yet balanced, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: The key to great Chicken Shawarma is the marinade, which tenderizes the chicken while locking in moisture. After grilling or roasting, the result is tender, juicy chicken with a slight charred exterior for added depth of flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Chicken Shawarma can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, whether wrapped in pita bread, served over a salad, or paired with rice. The options are endless, allowing you to customize the meal to your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors of Chicken Shawarma are even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it later, or enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.
• Easy to Make: Despite its bold flavors, Chicken Shawarma is relatively simple to make at home. With just a few ingredients and some patience for marinating, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes marinating time)
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Fat: 18-25g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma:

• 1 ½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Garlic Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Shawarma Wrap or Plate:

• 4 pita bread or flatbreads
• Fresh tomatoes, sliced
• Fresh cucumber, sliced
• Pickled cucumbers or pickled turnips (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lettuce or spinach (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, and all the ground spices: cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cardamom, black pepper, and salt. Add the optional ground cloves and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat in your Shawarma.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth marinade. The combination of spices will create a warm, aromatic paste that will infuse the chicken with deep flavors.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.

Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but for best results, marinate it overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become, as the spices have time to penetrate the meat.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt as needed.

The sauce should be creamy with a strong garlic flavor and a subtle tang from the lemon. This sauce is a perfect complement to the spiced chicken and adds richness and freshness to the dish.

Cover the garlic sauce and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. The sauce can be made a day in advance for extra flavor development.

4. Cook the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook. You have two options for cooking the chicken: grilling or roasting.

• Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a nice char on the outside.
• Oven Roasting Method: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the marinated chicken on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The chicken should be cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. This will ensure the juices stay locked in and the chicken remains tender.

5. Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

To assemble your Shawarma wraps, warm your pita or flatbread in the oven for a few minutes or on a skillet. This step makes the bread more pliable and adds a slight crispness.

Place the sliced chicken in the center of the warm bread. Add a spoonful of the garlic sauce over the chicken, then top with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled vegetables if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Fold the sides of the bread over the filling and roll it up tightly to form a wrap. Serve immediately.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Your homemade Chicken Shawarma is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a wrap, or if you prefer, serve it on a plate with a side of rice or a fresh salad. The juicy chicken, aromatic spices, creamy garlic sauce, and crunchy veggies make for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Shawarma

• Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Chicken thighs are preferred for Shawarma because they’re more tender and juicy than chicken breasts. If you prefer chicken breasts, they can be used, but they may not be as juicy.
• Let the Chicken Marinate: Marinating the chicken for a longer time allows the spices to really penetrate the meat, ensuring a more flavorful result. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic Sauce: The garlic sauce is a crucial element of the dish. It adds a creamy texture and a refreshing contrast to the spicy, savory chicken. You can make it spicier by adding more garlic or adjusting the lemon juice.
• Add a Little Heat: If you like your Shawarma spicy, feel free to add more cayenne pepper to the marinade or top the wraps with chili sauce for extra heat.
• Grill for Best Flavor: While roasting the chicken is convenient, grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the Shawarma experience. If you have a grill, try cooking the chicken on it for the best results.

Variations of Chicken Shawarma

• Beef Shawarma: For a variation, substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef or lamb. The same marinade can be used for beef Shawarma, creating a slightly richer, more robust flavor.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: For a vegetarian version, use roasted vegetables such as cauliflower, eggplant, or mushrooms as the filling. You can also use falafel or hummus for a plant-based option.
• Shawarma Salad: If you prefer a lighter meal, serve the chicken Shawarma on a bed of greens with all the traditional toppings. This makes a refreshing and healthy version of Shawarma.
• Shawarma Rice Bowl: Instead of wrapping the chicken in pita, serve it over a bed of rice with the garlic sauce and your choice of toppings. This makes for a hearty and filling meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Shawarma is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. To store the chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The garlic sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

If you want to store the Shawarma in its wraps, it’s best to keep the filling and bread separate to avoid sogginess. You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking, allowing you to have Shawarma ready to go whenever you need it.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Shawarma

• Hummus: Serve the Shawarma with a side of creamy hummus and warm pita for a classic Middle Eastern meal.
• Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing parsley-based salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon juice is a perfect complement to the rich flavors of Shawarma.
• Fried Eggplant: Crispy fried eggplant slices can add texture and flavor to your Shawarma plate.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs and spices makes a wonderful side dish that pairs well with the savory chicken.
• Pickled Vegetables: Pickled cucumbers or turnips add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the Shawarma.

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Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful, tender, and satisfying dish that brings the taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen. With a simple marinade, some grilling or roasting, and a few fresh toppings, you can make this beloved dish at home. Whether you prefer it in a wrap or served over rice, Chicken Shawarma is a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the bold, aromatic flavors of homemade Shawarma!