Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Name: Chicken Shawarma
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 pita breads or flatbreads; Your favorite toppings (e.g., diced tomatoes, cucumbers, tahini sauce)

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

June 17, 2025

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Imagine biting into a warm, savory Chicken Shawarma bursting with spices that dance on your tongue. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your stomach rumble like it’s auditioning for a role in a food commercial. Each layer of succulent chicken, tangy sauce, and crisp veggies wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug on a chilly day. This dish is not just about flavors; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of a Middle Eastern market.

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Shawarma at a local food festival. My taste buds were doing the cha-cha as I relished every bite! It was love at first taste—who knew something so simple could feel like such a culinary journey? Perfect for gatherings or just those lazy nights when you want to impress your taste buds without putting in too much effort. Get ready to embark on this flavor-packed adventure!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Shawarma is super easy to prepare and delivers bold flavors that will impress everyone.
The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching dish for any occasion.
You can customize it with your favorite toppings and sauces for more fun.
Great as a quick weeknight meal or for entertaining friends!

A friend once declared my Chicken Shawarma the best thing since sliced bread—now that’s some serious praise!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Juicy thighs are ideal for shawarma; they stay tender and flavorful during cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves add an unbeatable punch of flavor; don’t skimp on these little gems.
Ground Cumin: This spice brings warmth and depth; essential for capturing that authentic shawarma taste.
Ground Coriander: Adds citrusy notes; it works wonderfully alongside cumin in this recipe.
Paprika: Choose smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
Turmeric Powder: Gives the dish its lovely golden hue while adding earthy undertones.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up all those rich flavors—you’ll want every drop!
Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for marinating the chicken; it helps lock in moisture.
Pita Bread or Flatbreads: Perfect for wrapping your juicy chicken and toppings together—don’t forget these essentials!
Your Favorite Toppings (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers, tahini sauce): Customize with fresh veggies and dips that tickle your fancy!

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

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric powder, lemon juice, and olive oil. Whisk until blended well.

Marinate the Chicken: Add boneless chicken thighs to the bowl. Ensure each piece is covered thoroughly with marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour—overnight is even better!

Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), or until nicely charred.

Rest and Slice the Chicken: Once cooked perfectly, remove from heat and let them rest for about five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Assemble Your Wraps!: Lay slices of chicken onto pita bread or flatbreads. Top generously with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and drizzle tahini sauce over everything.

Serve with Love!: Gather around with family or friends—dig into those delicious wraps while enjoying great company!

This delightful recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create something truly heartwarming—perfectly seasoned Chicken Shawarma that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

You Must Know

Chicken Shawarma is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
The irresistible aroma and juicy flavors transport you to a bustling Middle Eastern market.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for wraps, platters, or salads—making it a family favorite.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor. Cook it in a hot skillet or grill to achieve that signature char. Finish with a quick broil to lock in juiciness while caramelizing the spices.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the spices based on your preferences. Add some lemon zest for brightness or crushed red pepper for heat. You can even experiment with yogurt-based sauces for a creamy finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Achieving the perfect chicken shawarma requires patience and precision.
Ensure your chicken is evenly coated with marinade for optimal flavor infusion.
Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness; remember, juicy is key!
A meat thermometer can help ensure doneness without overcooking.

Cooking Chicken Shawarma always reminds me of that one dinner party where my friends went back for thirds. They couldn’t resist asking how I got it so tender and flavorful!

FAQ

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Shawarma?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their moisture and flavor retention during cooking.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate and cook the chicken in advance, then store it for later use.

What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?

Serve it with pita bread, fresh veggies, or over a bed of rice for a delicious meal.

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