This easy chicken shawarma is packed with tasty spices and comes with a creamy garlic sauce that’s simply out of this world! It’s a delicious twist on a classic dish.
When I make this, my kitchen smells amazing! Serve it with warm pita bread or fresh veggies, and you’ll feel like a superstar chef. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my go-to for juiciness, but chicken breasts work too if that’s what you have. Just remember, thighs will give you a more tender result.
Spices: The mix of cumin, paprika, and turmeric creates that distinct shawarma flavor. If you’re missing spices, try curry powder or garam masala as a substitute, but the overall flavor will change.
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat yogurt or sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for a bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder also works, though fresh is always best for this dish!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken properly is important for keeping it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour; overnight is even better. This helps infuse all the spices.
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear. If the pan is too hot, the outside may burn before the inside cooks.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. This way, each piece gets that lovely char!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for tender bites.
With these tips, you’ll make a shawarma that’s not only easy but also packed with flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Shawarma With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Warm pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken shawarma recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking. If you can, let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or even better—overnight! In total, expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to enjoy this delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth marinade. This is where the magic begins!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken to the bowl and toss it well so that every piece is generously coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have time, overnight marination is even better to enhance the flavors!
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, let’s make the creamy garlic sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir it until everything is blended well. Cover the sauce and pop it in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely, slightly charred look. Don’t be afraid to get a nice sear!
5. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making it even more delicious. If your chicken isn’t already sliced, now’s a good time to thinly slice it!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chicken shawarma with warm pita bread, and load it up with fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. Drizzle over the creamy garlic sauce, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Add pickles if you like a tangy crunch!
7. Dig In:
Now it’s time to enjoy your easy, flavorful chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce! Each bite will have you wishing you made more!
This recipe perfectly captures the smoky, spiced flavor of traditional shawarma, made easy for home cooking. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Shawarma With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer them over thighs. They might cook a little faster, so be sure to check for doneness to avoid drying them out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference!
Can I Prepare the Shawarma Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the creamy garlic sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if it’s too dry!
