Chicken Shawarma

If you’re craving a flavorful, savory, and satisfying meal, look no further than this Chicken Shawarma recipe. This Middle Eastern classic is packed with bold spices and tender chicken, paired with a creamy and tangy yogurt sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish from scratch.

Ingredients

To make this Chicken Shawarma, you’ll need a few essential ingredients to bring out the rich, aromatic flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp coriander
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 onion thinly sliced
• Juice of one lemon
• 2 lbs chicken thighs (about 6)
• 3 tbsp olive oil

for the Yogurt Sauce

• ⅔ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed and minced
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

for Chicken Shawarma

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices—garlic powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, black pepper, and kosher salt. Whisk everything together until well mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight for the best flavor infusion.
3. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for roasting the chicken.
4. Add Onion to Marinade
   Add the thinly sliced onion to the marinade and toss to coat. This will infuse the onions with the same delicious spices as the chicken.
5. Bake the Chicken and Onion
   Spread the marinated chicken thighs and onions evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked, tender, and golden brown.
6. Slice the Chicken
   Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips for serving.

for the Yogurt Sauce

1. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
   In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
2. Season the Sauce
   Season the yogurt sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• Wrap it in Pita: For a classic presentation, serve the Chicken Shawarma on warmed pitas or flatbreads. You can also use wraps or tortillas if you prefer.
• Add Fresh Vegetables: Enhance the flavor and texture by adding fresh veggies such as tomatoes, cucumber, lettuce, or pickled onions. These add crunch and freshness to balance the spiced chicken.
• Serve with Sides: Chicken Shawarma pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh, or a simple Greek salad.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top your Shawarma with fresh cilantro or parsley to add a burst of color and an extra layer of freshness.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store the chicken and yogurt sauce separately to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the chicken, place it in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Leftover Yogurt Sauce: The yogurt sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It makes a great dip for other dishes or can be used as a topping for salads or grilled vegetables.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Chicken Shawarma remains flavorful and fresh for your next meal!

Variations

1. Grilled Chicken Shawarma
For a smoky, charred flavor, cook the marinated chicken on a grill instead of baking it. Skewer the chicken pieces and grill them over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. This method gives the chicken a delicious crispy exterior.

2. Shawarma with Chicken Breast
If you prefer a leaner option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts will still work and cook slightly faster. Be sure not to overcook them to keep them tender.

3. Chicken Shawarma Salad
For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the sliced chicken on a bed of mixed greens instead of pita. Add tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a drizzle of the yogurt sauce for a refreshing Shawarma-inspired salad.

4. Shawarma Wraps
Instead of using pita bread, you can use wraps or tortillas for a different texture. Warm them up and add a handful of fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a delicious wrap.

5. Spicy Chicken Shawarma
For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or include some diced chili peppers to the marinade. You can also mix in a few dashes of hot sauce into the yogurt sauce for a spicy kick.

6. Vegetarian Shawarma
If you’re vegetarian, try using cauliflower, eggplant, or mushrooms as a substitute for chicken. Simply marinate the vegetables in the same Shawarma spices and bake or grill until tender and golden.

7. Shawarma Rice Bowl
Instead of serving the Shawarma on pita, serve it on a bed of seasoned rice. Add roasted vegetables, a drizzle of yogurt sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a filling rice bowl.

8. Shawarma with Tahini Sauce
For a slightly different flavor profile, substitute the yogurt sauce with tahini sauce. Mix tahini with lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and water for a creamy, nutty sauce that pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken.

9. Shawarma with Hummus
Spread a thin layer of hummus on your pita or flatbread before adding the chicken for extra creaminess and flavor. You can also serve the Shawarma alongside hummus as a dip.

10. Shawarma with Pickled Vegetables
For an extra layer of tangy flavor, add pickled vegetables like pickled cucumbers or turnips to your Shawarma wrap. The sharp acidity balances the richness of the chicken and yogurt sauce beautifully.

These variations allow you to customize your Chicken Shawarma based on personal preferences or dietary needs, ensuring a unique and delicious meal every time!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Shawarma?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts tend to be drier, so be careful not to overcook them. You may want to marinate them a bit longer to ensure they stay juicy.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken for Shawarma?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, marinating it overnight allows the spices to penetrate the meat deeply, giving it an even richer flavor.

3. Can I make Shawarma with other meats?
Yes, you can make Shawarma with lamb, beef, or even turkey. The seasoning works wonderfully with these meats as well, so feel free to try different options.

4. Can I grill the chicken for Shawarma instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky flavor and crispy edges. You can skewer the chicken pieces and grill them over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.

5. What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
Chicken Shawarma is delicious served with pita bread, wraps, or a salad. It pairs perfectly with sides like hummus, tabbouleh, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables.

6. Can I freeze the marinated chicken for Shawarma?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Simply place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.

7. Can I make Shawarma in advance?
You can make the Shawarma in advance by cooking the chicken and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it before serving, and it’s still delicious.

8. What should I do if I don’t have a baking sheet?
If you don’t have a baking sheet, you can use a roasting pan or even a cast-iron skillet. The goal is to have the chicken spread out in a single layer so it cooks evenly.

9. How can I make Shawarma spicier?
To make Shawarma spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add fresh chili peppers to the marinade. You can also mix hot sauce into the yogurt sauce for extra heat.

10. Can I use store-bought yogurt sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt if you prefer a quicker option. However, making your own yogurt sauce gives you a fresher and more customizable flavor.

These FAQs should help answer any questions you may have when preparing your Chicken Shawarma, ensuring a delicious and hassle-free meal!

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen. With its bold spices, tender chicken, and creamy yogurt sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Try it out today, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade Chicken Shawarma!

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