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Craving a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner? Look no further than this incredibly delicious Chicken Shawarma recipe. It’s a family favorite!
This recipe brings the exotic flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen. Get ready for tender, juicy chicken bursting with aromatic spices. It’s so good, you will be making it again and again.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE the Chicken Shawarma
Why You’ll Adore This Chicken Shawarma Recipe
This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The vibrant flavors will transport your taste buds. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal. It’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Chicken Shawarma
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward a fantastic meal. This recipe uses simple ingredients that combine to create something extraordinary. You might even have some of these spices in your pantry already! It’s all about the perfect blend of flavors.
Don’t miss out on our guide to Chicken Shawarma Pitas Garlic Sauce Recipe.
Ingredients:
Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need to make this Chicken Shawarma:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of the show. They stay juicy and tender.
- Yogurt: Plain yogurt tenderizes the chicken and adds a lovely tang. Greek yogurt works great, too.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Spices: Cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder create that authentic shawarma flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these essentials to enhance all the other flavors.
- Optional additions: You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma
Making Chicken Shawarma is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time. It’s a great recipe for beginners!
Another favorite of ours is the Chipotle Black Bean Corn Dip Warm Recipe.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices in a bowl. Add the chicken and make sure it’s well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
There are several ways to cook your chicken. You can grill it, bake it, or even cook it in a skillet. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred around the edges for that authentic shawarma look.
Step 3: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender meat. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips, just like you would find at your favorite shawarma shop.
See also: recipetineats.
Step 4: Prepare the Toppings
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your favorite toppings. This could be anything from fresh veggies to a creamy sauce. This is where you can get creative and make it your own!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Load up your warm pita bread with the sliced chicken and your favorite toppings. Drizzle with sauce and enjoy! This is the best part, so dig in and savor every bite.
Recommended Tools & Equipment for Chicken Shawarma
Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen. Here are some of the items that will help you make perfect Chicken Shawarma. These are items you likely already have!
For more details on Chicken Shawarma, check out food52.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few bowls for marinating and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups: Accurate measurements are key to the perfect flavor.
- Whisk: A whisk is great for combining the marinade ingredients.
- Grill, Oven or Skillet: Depending on your preferred cooking method.
- Cutting Board & Knife: For slicing the chicken and preparing toppings.
PRO TIPS for Chicken Shawarma
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma
To make your Chicken Shawarma truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind. Marinate the chicken for at least a few hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor. Don’t overcrowd your pan or grill when cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest before slicing. These small steps make a big difference!
Variations & Serving Ideas
One of the best things about Chicken Shawarma is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking and experiment with different flavors and serving styles. Get creative and have fun!
- Different Proteins: Try using lamb or beef instead of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add Vegetables: Grill or roast bell peppers, onions, and zucchini alongside the chicken for added flavor and texture.
- Create a Bowl: Serve the chicken over rice or quinoa with your favorite toppings and a drizzle of tahini sauce. Think of this as a base for a healthy meal.
- Use Different Breads: While pita bread is traditional, you can also use naan, wraps, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
- Add a Sauce: Experiment with different sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy garlic sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Proper storage ensures your delicious Chicken Shawarma stays fresh and safe to eat. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Shawarma.
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the chicken in a skillet, oven, or microwave. If reheating in a skillet or oven, add a little bit of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. This will keep the chicken from drying out
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a wonderful way to bring a taste of the Middle East to your table. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet special enough for a weekend gathering. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Happy cooking!
FAQs About Chicken Shawarma
What if I don’t have all the spices listed?
You can still make delicious shawarma! Start with cumin and paprika, then add other spices you have on hand. Even a simple blend will taste amazing!
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Chicken Shawarma
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This recipe guides you through making delicious homemade Chicken Shawarma, a flavorful Middle Eastern street food favorite. It features tender marinated chicken, perfectly spiced, wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh toppings and a creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp shawarma spice blend (see note below)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pita bread, for serving
- Tahini sauce (recipe below)
- Chopped tomatoes, for serving
- Chopped cucumbers, for serving
- Red onion, thinly sliced, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Shawarma Spice Blend (makes about 3 tablespoons):
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, shawarma spice blend, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Make sure all pieces are covered.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler.
- Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Broil the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or on a grill over medium-high heat.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the tahini sauce (recipe below) and chop the toppings.
- Warm the pita bread.
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes.
- Assemble the shawarma: Place some chicken in a warm pita, add tahini sauce, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tahini Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tahini paste
- 1/4 cup cold water, plus more as needed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and creamy, adding more water a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
Notes
- For a spicier shawarma, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade.
- You can also use chicken breast, but chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful.
- If you don’t have a broiler, you can cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling/Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shawarma
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 35g
