Delightful Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Name: Delightful Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup tahini paste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice (for sauce); 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Published: April 1, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests.
Each bite bursts with flavor thanks to aromatic spices and fresh ingredients.
It’s visually stunning with vibrant colors from vegetables and sauces.
Plus, you can customize it endlessly with various toppings and wraps!

Making Chicken Shawarma for my family turned out to be a hit; they devoured it within minutes!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness and flavor; they stay tender even after cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor; opt for firm cloves for the best taste.
Ground Cumin: This spice brings an earthy warmth; it’s a must-have for authentic shawarma flavor.
Ground Coriander: Adds a light citrusy note that brightens up the dish; choose high-quality coriander for best results.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika if you like a touch of smokiness; it enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Yogurt: A creamy base for marinating the chicken; Greek yogurt works wonderfully to keep it moist.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade and balances out the flavors beautifully.
Olive Oil: Essential for marinating; it helps infuse flavor and keeps the chicken tender.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all those delicious flavors; don’t skip these!

For the Sauce:

Tahini Paste: Provides a nutty richness that complements the spiced chicken perfectly; make sure it’s well-mixed before using.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness; it’s an excellent garnish too!
Lemon Juice (for sauce): Adds zing to your tahini sauce; adjust according to taste preference.
Garlic Powder (for sauce): A pinch boosts flavor without overpowering other ingredients in your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together!

Gather Your Ingredients :Gather all your ingredients together on your workspace. Having everything at hand makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Prepare the Marinade :In a bowl, mix yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should smell heavenly already!

Marinate the Chicken :Place boneless chicken thighs into your marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer into a ziplock bag. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible.

Cook Your Chicken :Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place marinated chicken thighs directly onto the grill or pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side until beautifully charred and cooked through.

Rest & Slice :Once cooked through—when internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C)—remove from heat and let rest briefly before slicing it into thin strips. This resting period helps retain moisture.

Assemble Your Shawarma :Warm pita bread or flatbreads slightly in a dry pan or microwave before assembling your shawarma. Place sliced chicken in each bread followed by fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and drizzle tahini sauce generously over everything!

Now get ready to take that first bite!

Your taste buds are about to thank you tremendously as you dive into this flavorful creation!

You Must Know

This Chicken Shawarma recipe brings Middle Eastern flavors to your kitchen, offering a juicy and flavorful dish.
The blend of spices creates an aromatic experience, while the marinated chicken ensures tenderness.
Perfect for wraps, bowls, or a hearty salad.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken first; this allows the flavors to soak in. While it marinates, prepare your sides and sauces for efficient cooking. Finally, cook the chicken on high heat for that signature char.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spices based on your preference; cumin or smoked paprika can add unique twists. You can also add sautéed veggies or pickles to enhance texture and flavor in your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat to maintain juiciness and prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For juicy chicken, let it marinate overnight; this ensures maximum flavor penetration.
Always use high heat when cooking to achieve that desirable charred texture.
Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps retain moisture for a tender bite.

Sharing this recipe at my family gathering brought everyone together! They couldn’t believe how easy it was, and I loved hearing their compliments about my newfound culinary skills.

FAQ

Can I use other meats for Chicken Shawarma?

Yes, beef or lamb works wonderfully as alternative options for this recipe.

How can I make Chicken Shawarma vegetarian?

Try using marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

What sides pair well with Chicken Shawarma?

Serve with tabbouleh, hummus, or pita bread for a complete meal experience.

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