Name: Flavorful Chicken Shawarma Recipe
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; 2 tsp smoked paprika; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 pita breads or flatbreads; Your choice of toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble. Imagine tender pieces of marinated chicken sizzling away on the grill, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. This is the magic of Chicken Shawarma—an irresistible dish that promises an explosion of taste in every bite.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of hosting dinner parties where delicious food was the star. One unforgettable evening included Chicken Shawarma that had everyone raving and asking for seconds. It was more than just a meal; it became a cherished memory filled with laughter and joy. You can also create these memories by whipping up this vibrant dish for gatherings or even a cozy night in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy Chicken Shawarma recipe offers flavorful spices that transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East
Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions
The vibrant colors and aromas make it a feast for both eyes and palate
Plus, you can customize it based on what you have on hand!

I made this dish for friends once, and their faces lit up like it was Christmas morning when they took the first bite!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for juiciness; they stay moist during cooking better than breasts.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch—use about 4 cloves for that aromatic zing.
Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth; choose high-quality cumin for better flavor.
Ground Coriander: A subtle citrusy note balances spices; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds depth; I use it whenever possible for extra flavor dimensions.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; bottled juice just can’t compete.
Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil for marinating; it enhances flavor while keeping things healthy.
Pita Bread or Flatbreads: Essential for wrapping up all that juicy goodness!
Your Favorite Toppings: Think lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickles—get creative!

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

Let’s Make it Together

First things first—let’s marinate our chicken to infuse those delightful flavors.

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss in the chicken thighs until well coated. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).

Prepare Your Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven broiler to high. If using an oven, place a rack close to the heat source.

Cook the Chicken: Grill or broil your marinated chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and nicely charred. You want those beautiful grill marks!

Rest and Slice: Once cooked through (internal temperature should hit 165°F), remove from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. This helps retain all those juicy flavors.

Assemble Your Wraps: Grab your pita bread or flatbreads. Layer some sliced chicken along with your favorite toppings—lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers—and drizzle over some tahini sauce or yogurt dressing if desired.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot! Watch as everyone digs in with smiles as big as their appetite!

Now you’ve created something spectacular that’ll have everyone wanting more! Serve alongside some tangy yogurt sauce or spicy garlic sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.

Enjoy making this Chicken Shawarma—it’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with flavor and joy!

You Must Know

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a flavor bomb that’s easy to make at home
It’s perfect for meal prep, and if you have leftovers, they are even tastier the next day
The aroma of spices will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Cook it in a hot skillet for crispy edges while prepping your toppings like veggies and sauces.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or tofu. Add your favorite spices or fresh herbs to elevate the flavors and personalize this dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain its juiciness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For juicy chicken, ensure it marinates long enough; overnight is best!
Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking to achieve that perfect crispy texture
Don’t forget to serve with fresh veggies and tahini sauce for an extra flavor punch!

Sharing the first batch of Chicken Shawarma with friends was unforgettable; their delighted faces made all the effort worthwhile and turned me into the ‘Shawarma Queen’ of our group!

FAQ

What is Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made with marinated chicken, typically served in pita bread.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey, beef, or lamb can be used as delicious alternatives in this recipe.

How do I serve Chicken Shawarma?

Serve it wrapped in pita or on a platter with fresh veggies, sauces, and rice.