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There’s nothing quite like the bold, aromatic flavors of Chicken Shawarma Skewers—juicy, spiced chicken grilled to perfection and bursting with Middle Eastern flair. If you love takeout-style shawarma, trust me, this homemade version is a total game-changer. It’s easy, packed with warm spices, and perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or weekend grilling.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Shawarma Skewers
This recipe isn’t just about incredible flavors—it’s about creating a go-to dish you’ll want to make over and over again.
- Authentic Flavor, Easy at Home: Get restaurant-quality shawarma without the rotisserie setup.
- Juicy & Tender: The marinade ensures perfectly spiced, ultra-moist chicken.
- Versatile: Serve it in pita wraps, over rice, or with a fresh salad.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make extra and enjoy flavorful leftovers all week.
- Perfect for Grilling or Oven-Baking: Works for BBQ season or indoor cooking.
Ingredients in Chicken Shawarma Skewers
Here’s what makes these skewers so irresistible:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Thighs give the juiciest results, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
- Greek Yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken while adding a rich, tangy flavor.
- Olive Oil: Helps carry the flavors and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the spices.
- Garlic: Because no shawarma is complete without garlic!
- Shawarma Spices: A bold mix of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and a hint of cayenne for heat.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into making these flavor-packed skewers:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor).
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Preheat Your Grill or Oven: If grilling, preheat to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook to Perfection:
- Grilling: Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and cooked through.
- Oven-Baking: Place skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Skewers
- In Pita Wraps: Stuff into warm pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and garlic sauce.
- Over Rice: Serve with fragrant basmati rice and a drizzle of tahini.
- With a Salad: Pair with a fresh cucumber-tomato salad for a light meal.
- As an Appetizer: Serve with hummus and tzatziki for a delicious party platter.
Additional Tips
- Marinate Longer for Best Flavor: Overnight marination deepens the flavors.
- Use Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers for 30 minutes.
- Don’t Overcook: Check for doneness at 165°F (75°C) to keep the chicken juicy.
- Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne or a pinch of chili powder for more heat.
- Leftovers? No Problem: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A1: Yes, but thighs are juicier. If using breasts, don’t overcook to keep them tender.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Marinate the chicken a day ahead and grill when ready.
Q3: Can I cook this in a pan instead?
A3: Yes! Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet and cook on medium heat.
Q4: What’s the best sauce to serve with shawarma skewers?
A4: Garlic sauce, tahini, or a lemony yogurt sauce pairs perfectly.
Q5: Can I freeze marinated chicken?
A5: Yes! Freeze raw marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw and cook as usual.
Q6: How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
A6: Soak them in water for 30 minutes before using.
Q7: Can I make this dairy-free?
A7: Swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or a non-dairy alternative.
Q8: What sides go well with shawarma skewers?
A8: Hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, or roasted potatoes are great options.
Q9: Can I add veggies to the skewers?
A9: Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini work great.
Q10: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A10: Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken Shawarma Skewers are the perfect balance of spice, juiciness, and ease. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out and let me know how you serve yours!
Print
Chicken Shawarma Skewers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
These chicken shawarma skewers are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, whether grilled or broiled. Marinated in Shawarma BBQ Sauce, they bring bold Middle Eastern flavors to your table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or BBQ gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4 thighs)
- 1/2 tsp salt, plus a pinch for the vegetables
- 1/2 cup New York Shuk Shawarma BBQ Sauce
- 1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Wooden skewers
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- Cut each chicken thigh into 6 equal pieces (about 1½ inches each).
- Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl, season with ½ teaspoon salt, and add the Shawarma BBQ Sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate.
Prepare the Vegetables
- In a separate bowl, combine the onion and bell pepper. Season with a pinch of salt and toss with olive oil.
Assemble the Skewers
- Thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating ingredients evenly.
Grilling Method
- Prepare a medium-hot grill fire or preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and nicely browned (about 12–15 minutes).
Broiling Method
- Position the oven rack 3–4 inches below the broiler and preheat on high.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the skewers on it, leaving some space between them.
- Broil, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred (about 15 minutes).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg