Description
This easy and delicious Chicken Shawarma recipe features juicy marinated chicken cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices and served with a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a flavorful meal, the shawarma can be grilled or cooked on the stovetop, then enjoyed with fresh vegetables or pita bread for an authentic Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade and Chicken
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (can substitute with avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika can enhance flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 4 cloves Minced Garlic (fresh preferred, powder in emergencies)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (lime juice as an alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 pound Chicken Thighs or Breasts (thighs for juiciness, breasts are also fine)
Garlic Sauce
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative)
- Minced Garlic to taste (from above or additional)
- Lemon Juice to taste
- Pinch of Salt
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until smooth and fragrant, ensuring all spices are well blended.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken strips to the marinade bowl and coat each piece thoroughly with the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
- Heat cooking surface: Heat a grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a few drops of oil to prevent sticking and prepare for searing.
- Cook the chicken: Place marinated chicken strips onto the grill or pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure doneness.
- Rest and slice chicken: Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain juices, then slice into bite-sized pieces revealing tender, spiced meat inside.
- Make the garlic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust seasoning for a creamy, balanced sauce.
- Serve: Arrange the sliced chicken on pita bread or a plate and generously drizzle with the garlic sauce. Complement the dish with fresh vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, use thighs rather than breasts.
- Marinating overnight will enhance the flavor significantly.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier garlic sauce option.
- Adjust the garlic and lemon juice in the sauce according to your taste preference.
- This recipe works well with either grill or stovetop cooking methods.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keywords: chicken shawarma, garlic sauce, Middle Eastern chicken, grilled chicken, easy chicken recipe, marinated chicken
