“Is there anything more comforting than the scent of grilling chicken wafting through your kitchen?” This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce delivers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean spices that will liven up any dinner table. The blend of smoky and tangy flavors creates a dish that’s not only a quick prep time but also an impressive crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply looking for a vibrant weeknight meal, this recipe has you covered! Picture tender, juicy chicken with crispy edges, all drizzled with a rich, garlicky sauce that takes it to the next level. Are you ready to experience this delicious transformation of a classic dish? Let’s dive in and make some magic in the kitchen!

Why is Chicken Shawarma Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of this Chicken Shawarma bursts with a symphony of smoky spices and creamy garlic that awaken your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: With simple marinating and grilling, you can prepare this mouth-watering dish in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!

Versatile Serving Ideas: Enjoy it in wraps, over rice, or paired with a zesty tabbouleh. It’s your choice!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: From kids to adults, everyone loves the juicy chicken topped with a velvety garlic sauce, making it an ideal party dish.

Comfort Food Upgrade: Elevate your dinner routine with a dish that feels gourmet but comes together effortlessly at home. Ready for a new favorite? Check out how to make the best Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce tonight!

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade
• Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Choose thighs for a juicier final dish.
• Plain Greek Yogurt – This adds moisture and tang; try non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option.
• Olive Oil – Helps the chicken cook evenly while adding flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor and adds necessary acidity.
• Garlic (minced) – Packs the marinade with aromatic richness.
• Ground Cumin – Introduces a warm, earthy note to enhance the shawarma flavor.
• Ground Coriander – Offers a citrusy freshness that balances the spices.
• Smoked Paprika – Essential for that signature shawarma smokiness.
• Ground Turmeric – Adds a vibrant color and a slightly bitter taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides a subtle sweetness that rounds out the spice profile.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Basic yet essential seasonings that enhance all flavors.

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the rich base of the sauce, adding creaminess.
• Chopped Parsley – Freshens up the sauce and makes for a lovely garnish.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking and create that irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended. Add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 days for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Make sure the surface is clean and lightly greased to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles on contact. This temperature will help achieve a nice char on your Chicken Shawarma.

Step 3: Grill Chicken
Carefully place the marinated chicken on the hot grill, ensuring not to overcrowd the surface. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side, turning once, until fully cooked and juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F, while the edges present a beautiful char. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Rest Chicken
After grilling, allow the chicken to rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This step is essential for retaining its juiciness. Once rested, slice the chicken into strips to prepare for serving. The flavors from the marinade will be beautifully pronounced in each bite of your Chicken Shawarma.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped parsley. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste, and if needed, add water gradually for desired consistency. This creamy garlic sauce will bring a delicious tang to your Chicken Shawarma.

Step 6: Serve
Layer the sliced grilled chicken on warm flatbread or pita. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce and garnish with additional chopped parsley, fresh veggies, or pickled elements if desired. Enjoy your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce with a side of your choice for a complete meal.

Storage Tips for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful for your next meal.

Freezer: If you have extra Chicken Shawarma, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just ensure to label it for easy identification later!

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then heat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This keeps the Chicken Shawarma juicy without drying it out.

Creamy Garlic Sauce: Store the sauce separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before using, as ingredients may separate upon sitting.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and intensify. Simply combine the marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, the creamy garlic sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; just whisk the ingredients together and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, grill the marinated chicken and top it with your pre-made sauce for a delicious, hassle-free meal that tastes as good as if you made it fresh!

What to Serve with Juicy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this mouthwatering dish with delightful sides and complementary flavors.

Warm Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, warm pita is perfect for wrapping around the chicken, absorbing all those delicious flavors. It brings a comforting texture that’s simply irresistible.
Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini in olive oil and seasoning before roasting until tender. Their earthy sweetness provides a lovely contrast to the smoky chicken.
Fresh Tabbouleh Salad: This vibrant salad, made with parsley, mint, bulgur, and a lemony dressing, adds a refreshing and zesty crunch that brightens each bite of shawarma. It’s a wonderful way to introduce freshness to your meal.
Tangy Pickled Red Onions: These sharp and tangy onions offer a refreshing bite and a pop of color, balancing the rich flavors of the shawarma beautifully.
Mediterranean Hummus: Creamy and smooth, hummus can serve as a perfect dip for pita or veggie sticks while providing a luscious contrast to the grilled chicken.
Chilled Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink adds a soothing touch of mint and citrus brightness, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of your Chicken Shawarma.

Each of these pairings invites an array of flavors and textures that will round out your meal beautifully, ensuring that your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the star of the table!

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative and mix things up with these delicious variations that will delight your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt with non-dairy yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise for a creamy, plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a delightful heat that will warm your palate.
Herb Fusion: Incorporate fresh mint or cilantro into the marinade or sauce for an aromatic twist that enhances this Mediterranean masterpiece.
Crispy Texture: For added crunch, top your Chicken Shawarma with crispy fried onions or toasted pine nuts—it’s the perfect contrast to the tender chicken!
Sour Twist: Squeeze fresh pomegranate juice into the marinade for a unique flavor explosion that brightens up the dish.
Wrap it Up: Enjoy your Chicken Shawarma rolled in a warm lavash or tortilla, filling it with crunchy veggies for a satisfying wrap experience.
Bowl Style: Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous topped with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of that heavenly creamy garlic sauce; it’s a wholesome bowl of goodness!
On the Grill: Try skewering the marinated chicken pieces to make kebabs for a fun grilling experience that’s great for summer gatherings.

Now that you have these fun options, dig in and enjoy your culinary adventure with this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce! Want to explore more delicious chicken ideas? Don’t miss out on the fiery chicken ramen with creamy garlic sauce for another unforgettable dish!

Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma

Perfectly Juicy Chicken: Choose thighs over breasts for extra moisture; the fat in thighs helps keep the Chicken Shawarma succulent.
Marinate Wisely: For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. A quick hour works, but patience rewards you with deeper flavors.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F. This prevents overcooking and ensures a juicy bite.
Customize the Sauce: Adjust the creamy garlic sauce’s thickness by adding water gradually until it meets your preference for a delightful drizzle.
Don’t Rush the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high to achieve perfect char marks without drying out the chicken.

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe chicken for shawarma?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for your shawarma, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs or breasts. If possible, choose organic or free-range options for better flavor. Look for chicken that is plump and free from blemishes or discoloration; avoid any packages with dark spots or an off smell.

How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
To ensure your leftover Chicken Shawarma stays delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor. Simply reheat it gently to enjoy it again—this meal is just as good the next day!

Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Shawarma! To do this, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the grill or stovetop.

What if my chicken is dry after grilling?
If your Chicken Shawarma turns out dry, don’t fret! It often means the chicken was overcooked. To avoid this, make sure you cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F and use a meat thermometer for accurate results—especially with breasts. For future preparations, consider using chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and remain juicy even if cooked slightly longer.

Is this recipe suitable for my dairy allergy?
Certainly! If you or someone you know has a dairy allergy, you can easily modify the Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce to fit a dairy-free diet. Simply substitute the plain Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative and replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo in the sauce. This way, you can relish the flavors without compromising preferences or health needs.

How long can I store the creamy garlic sauce?
You can store the creamy garlic sauce for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. Before using it again, stir well as the ingredients may separate over time. If you find the sauce has thickened, simply add a drizzle of water to achieve your desired consistency.