As the aroma of spiced chicken wafts through the kitchen, it’s hard not to feel transported to the vibrant streets of the Middle East. My easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a delightful escape, combining juicy marinated chicken thighs with a creamy, tangy sauce that’s simply irresistible. This healthy chicken recipe not only packs incredible flavor but is also versatile enough to shine in wraps, rice bowls, or salads. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it comes together with minimal fuss and requires no special equipment—just your trusty oven or grill! Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is bound to impress. Curious to see how easy it is to create this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why Is Chicken Shawarma So Popular?
Juicy, Flavorful Chicken: Each bite of this shawarma is tender and packed with spices, delivering a taste sensation that will have your taste buds dancing.
Creamy Garlic Sauce: This luxurious sauce adds a tangy, rich element that perfectly complements the spices, taking your meal to the next level.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer wraps, rice bowls, or salads, this dish adapts effortlessly, making it a hit for any occasion!
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy authentic Middle Eastern flavors without the hassle—just like my Garlic Tomato Chicken for a speedy weeknight option!
Health-Conscious: Using chicken thighs for juiciness and a creamy yogurt-based sauce keeps this dish flavorful yet light, fitting perfectly into a healthy diet.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with your cooking skills as they savor this delicious meal, sure to be a new favorite in your home!
Chicken Shawarma Ingredients
• Enjoy creating the perfect Chicken Shawarma with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Chicken Thighs – Juiciness and flavor make thighs the best choice; chicken breast can work but may be dry.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture; feel free to substitute with any neutral oil if necessary.
- Ground Cumin – Provides warmth and a deep flavor profile to the marinade.
- Ground Paprika – Adds sweetness and beautiful color to your dish.
- Ground Turmeric – Imparts a vibrant hue and subtle earthiness; don’t skip it!
- Ground Cinnamon – Introduces a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Ground Black Pepper – Offers heat and enhances overall taste.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the other flavors.
- Ground Coriander – Offers a unique citrusy note that complements the other spices.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds strong, aromatic flavor; adjust the quantity for more punch.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken; fresh is best!
For the Garlic Sauce
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Acts as the creamy base for your garlic sauce; sour cream works in a pinch.
- Mayonnaise – Adds richness to the sauce; reduce the amount for a lighter option.
- Garlic (for sauce) – The star ingredient that gives garlic sauce its signature taste.
- Additional Lemon Juice – Enhances the flavor of the sauce; adjust to your preference.
- Salt (for sauce) – Balances flavors; tweak to match your taste!
By gathering these ingredients, you’re all set to whip up your own Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, ground coriander, minced garlic, and lemon juice until well combined. The mixture should have a vibrant color and fragrant aroma. This flavorful marinade is the heart of your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, so ensure every ingredient is thoroughly mixed.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken. For optimal flavor, marinate for up to 8 hours. When ready, the chicken should look glistening and well-seasoned, full of rich color from the spices.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill pan or oven to medium-high heat (around 425°F if using the oven). If grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until beautifully browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If roasting in the oven, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite of your Chicken Shawarma is succulent. After resting, slice the chicken into thin, uniform strips, showing off the juicy interior and charred edges that make it so appealing.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is resting, prepare the garlic sauce by combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, additional lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix together until smooth and creamy. This sauce will add a delightful tang and richness to your Chicken Shawarma, enhancing its overall flavor profile, so adjust the garlic and salt to suit your taste.
Step 6: Serve
To serve your delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, arrange the sliced chicken in warm pita wraps, on rice bowls, or over salad greens. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce and add any desired toppings like fresh vegetables or herbs. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will make this meal a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Variations
Feel free to customize your Chicken Shawarma experience and create something truly special with these delightful variations!
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Extra Heat: Add cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick that enhances the entire dish. Just a pinch will take your chicken to a whole new level!
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Meat Swap: Use beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Each option brings its own flavor profile, making it a versatile recipe worth exploring.
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Spice it Up: Try a different spice blend such as za’atar or harissa to cater to your taste buds. Not only does this change the flavor, but it also adds a fresh twist to your shawarma.
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Herbed Yogurt Sauce: Replace the garlic sauce with a herbed yogurt sauce using fresh herbs like mint or parsley. This twist will bring a refreshing note to your Chicken Shawarma.
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Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest to the marinade for an extra citrus burst. It brightens the flavors, making each bite feel even more vibrant!
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Creamy Avocado: Consider topping your shawarma with sliced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats. It complements the spices beautifully and adds a rich twist.
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Crispy Vegetables: Incorporate some roasted or pickled vegetables for added crunch and tang. This contrast in texture will elevate the whole dish and make it even more satisfying.
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Gluten-Free Wrapping: For gluten-free options, use lettuce wraps or rice bowls instead of pita. This way, you can still enjoy all the flavors without worrying about gluten.
Mix and match any of these ideas to craft your own perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce experience! If you need some inspiration, why not check out my Garlic Tomato Chicken or Sticky Garlic Chicken for more delicious chicken inspiration!
Storage Tips for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep it moist. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Garlic Sauce: Store the sauce separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving to bring back its creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor and tenderness. Simply mix the marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the garlic sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead—just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, grill or roast the chicken, slice it, and serve with the sauce for an effortless meal. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have restaurant-quality Chicken Shawarma ready to go with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma
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Marinade Time Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, but up to 8 hours for optimal flavor; don’t rush this step for the best results.
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Monitor Cooking Temperature: Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s juicy and fully cooked while avoiding dryness.
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Customize Your Spice Blend: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; adding extra paprika or cumin can enhance the flavor of your Chicken Shawarma.
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Refrigerate Sauce Overnight: Make your garlic sauce a day ahead for flavors to meld beautifully; this little trick elevates your dish to the next level.
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Proper Grilling Techniques: To achieve that perfect char, preheat your grill properly and avoid overcrowding to ensure each piece gets cooked evenly.
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Serve with Fresh Toppings: Enhance your Chicken Shawarma with fresh toppings like cucumber, lettuce, and tomato to add crunch and brightness!
What to Serve with Juicy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Transform your Chicken Shawarma into a memorable feast with delightful side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy, pita serves as the perfect vessel for wrapping the succulent chicken, enhancing each bite with its comforting texture.
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Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing herb salad introduces bright lemon and parsley flavors, cutting through the richness of the garlic sauce and adding a vibrant element.
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Garlic Rice: Aromatic and flavorful, garlic-infused rice serves as a lovely base for the chicken, absorbing the savory juices for an added depth of flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies offers a delightful contrast, bringing sweetness and crunch to each plate while showcasing nutritional diversity.
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Hummus: Creamy and savory, hummus pairs wonderfully, offering a dip for both the chicken and pita, mixing flavors and textures beautifully on your table.
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Minted Yogurt Sauce: A cool, refreshing accompaniment, this yogurt sauce provides a velvety finish to the meal, enhancing the spices with a touch of minty brightness.
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Chickpea Salad: Earthy chickpeas tossed with red onion and bell peppers add protein and color, making every bite not only delicious but also satisfying.
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Fresh Lemonade: A zesty, refreshing drink to wash it down, lemonade’s acidity enhances the dish’s flavors, creating a celebratory meal experience.
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Baklava: For dessert, treat your guests to flaky, sweet baklava that offers a satisfying end, balancing the savory notes with its honeyed richness.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Shawarma?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and rich flavor, which holds up beautifully against the marinade. While chicken breasts can be used in a pinch, they may dry out during cooking, so be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
Very! Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the chicken to cool down before sealing to maintain its freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma?
Of course! If you’d like to extend its shelf life, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently, making sure it stays juicy.
What if my chicken turns out dry after cooking?
Oh no! If your Chicken Shawarma turns dry, it may be due to overcooking. Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F while removing it from heat. To avoid this in the future, try using a meat thermometer and keep an eye on your cooking time. Remember to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking—it helps retain moisture.
Can I modify the marinade for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize the marinade based on your dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, ensure that all spices and oils are certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt or mayonnaise in the garlic sauce for a lighter option. Always adjust seasonings to your preference and have fun with it!
Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, ground coriander, minced garlic, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your grill pan or oven to medium-high heat (about 425°F). Cook the marinated chicken thighs on the grill for 5-6 minutes per side or roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- Prepare the garlic sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, additional lemon juice, and salt together until smooth.
- Serve the sliced chicken in pita wraps, rice bowls, or over salad, drizzling generously with the garlic sauce.
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