If you’re craving bold, mouthwatering flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East, then Chicken Shawarma is your new go-to dish! Picture this: juicy, tender chicken with a crispy, golden-brown exterior, all wrapped up in soft pita with fresh veggies and a drizzle of creamy garlic sauce. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this one. Whether you’re making it for dinner or a weekend feast, Chicken Shawarma has the kind of flavor-packed profile that makes everyone come back for seconds. Let’s get cooking!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Shawarma
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, planning a casual get-together, or treating yourself to a delicious meal, Chicken Shawarma is versatile and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’s such a favorite:
Bold Flavors: The blend of spices in this dish is what makes it stand out. You’ve got savory, tangy, and just the right amount of heat—each bite will keep you coming back for more.
Customizable: You can tweak the seasonings and toppings to match your personal taste. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper. Craving a little extra crunch? Add some pickles or lettuce!
Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow and doesn’t require a ton of time. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy restaurant-quality shawarma in the comfort of your own home.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This chicken stores well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a flavorful meal on the go.
Fun to Serve: Shawarma is typically served in pita, but you can get creative! Try it with a side of rice or a fresh salad, or just serve it on its own for a light, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of Chicken Shawarma—it’s packed with simple ingredients, but when combined, they create a dish that’s unforgettable. Let’s break it down:
- Chicken Thighs: Skinless, boneless chicken thighs are the perfect cut for shawarma—they stay juicy and tender throughout cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the spices and adds a tangy zing.
- Yogurt: Creamy yogurt tenderizes the chicken while also adding a rich, tangy note.
- Spices: A blend of cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper create the signature shawarma flavor.
- Olive Oil: To marinate and cook the chicken, olive oil adds richness and helps develop that perfect crispy exterior.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
- Pita or Flatbreads: To wrap the chicken and enjoy all those delicious flavors.
- Toppings: Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce; plus, a drizzle of garlic sauce or tahini for the ultimate finishing touch.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and all the spices. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You can also cook it on an outdoor grill for that smoky flavor.
3. Slice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips for that classic shawarma texture.
4. Assemble the Shawarma: Take your pita or flatbread and add a few slices of chicken. Top with your choice of fresh veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Don’t forget that garlic sauce or tahini to take it to the next level.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Roll up your shawarma, grab a napkin, and dig in! Enjoy it warm, fresh, and full of flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few ways to enjoy your Chicken Shawarma:
Fresh Salads: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced chicken.
Rice Pilaf: Serve your shawarma with some fluffy rice pilaf to balance out the flavors.
Pickles: Add some tangy pickles on the side to enhance the overall flavor.
Hummus: Creamy hummus is the perfect dip to complement the shawarma.
Pita Chips: For a crunchy side, serve your shawarma with some crispy pita chips or roasted vegetables.
Presentation is key, so don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for that vibrant touch!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to make your Chicken Shawarma even more amazing:
Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This gives the spices time to work their magic, making the chicken even more flavorful.
Grill It: If you have access to a grill, cook the chicken on it for an added smoky flavor. Shawarma cooked on a grill tastes incredible!
Make It Spicy: If you like heat, increase the amount of cayenne or chili powder in the marinade. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.
Toppings Galore: Get creative with your toppings. You can add pickled turnips, grilled veggies, or even a fried egg for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Leftover Shawarma: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet to get the crispy edges back!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A1: Yes, you can! Chicken breasts will work, but they tend to be a little drier than thighs. If you use breasts, be sure not to overcook them.
Q2: Can I make Chicken Shawarma in the oven?
A2: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q3: Can I make this dish without yogurt?
A3: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet for best results.
Q5: Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat when ready to serve.
Q6: What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Shawarma?
A6: Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which helps bring back some of that crispiness.
Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Definitely! This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a crowd. Just be sure to marinate the chicken in batches if necessary.
Q8: How can I make Chicken Shawarma spicier?
A8: Add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Q9: Can I use a different meat for Shawarma?
A9: Yes, you can use beef, lamb, or even turkey instead of chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the meat you choose.
Q10: Can I make a vegetarian version of Shawarma?
A10: Yes! Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables, tofu, or a plant-based protein to create a vegetarian shawarma.
Conclusion
Chicken Shawarma is one of those recipes that never gets old. It’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite meal in your rotation! Happy cooking!
Print
Chicken Shawarma
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Chicken Shawarma recipe brings the flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen. Tender, juicy chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices is grilled or baked to perfection. Served with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or a side of rice, this easy dinner recipe is perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal. It’s an ideal choice for those who love bold, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Pita bread or rice, for serving
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- If grilling: Cook the chicken on medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If baking: Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked. - Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Serve with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad, and garnish with parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken on an outdoor grill.
- Serve with a side of tahini sauce or garlic sauce for extra flavor.
- Chicken shawarma can also be served in a wrap or on a salad for a low-carb option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg