If you have been craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare at home, then you are going to fall in love with this Chicken Shawarma Recipe. The tender, marinated chicken infused with a symphony of spices delivers a juicy, smoky, and aromatic experience in every bite. Whether you are looking to jazz up your weeknight dinner or impress friends at a casual gathering, this recipe promises irresistible taste and a delightful culinary adventure that feels authentically homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Shawarma Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its signature flavor. From the tanginess of Greek yogurt to the warmth of spices like cumin and turmeric, every ingredient adds depth, body, and that unmistakable Middle Eastern charm.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfect for juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during cooking.
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Brings richness and helps the spices cling beautifully to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a fresh acidity that brightens the marinade.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic pungency that’s essential for authentic flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Imparts earthy warmth and a slightly nutty undertone.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky depth, essential for that grill-kissed taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Offers citrusy notes that elevate the spice profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Gives a beautiful golden hue and mild bitterness to balance spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Introduces a warm sweetness that complements savory elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle heat kick if you like a bit of spice.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring every bite sings.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just enough sharpness to round out the marinade.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by whisking together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices in a large bowl. This combination is your flavor powerhouse, marrying creamy tang with fragrant earthiness and warm aromatic notes.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Submerge the chicken thighs in the marinade, tossing thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This slow marinating step is key to unlocking tender, deeply-flavored chicken that practically melts on your fork.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or heat up a grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any extra drip off, then roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or grill/skillet cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through with those perfect charred spots.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to lock in juices, then slice it thinly against the grain. These slices are the star of your chicken shawarma and will taste incredible paired with fresh veggies, sauces, and warm pita.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken Shawarma Recipe, fresh garnishes are a must. Think crisp cucumber ribbons, ripe tomato slices, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of herbal brightness. A drizzle of garlic sauce or tahini adds creaminess and tang, perfectly balancing the smoky meat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside simple, vibrant sides. Serve it with warm pita bread for wrapping, a refreshing tabbouleh salad filled with parsley and bulgur, or even roasted vegetables seasoned with Middle Eastern spices. Light, fresh sides help balance the rich, spiced chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Chicken Shawarma Recipe a notch higher by turning it into a beautiful platter or a comforting bowl. Arrange sliced chicken over a bed of seasoned rice or crispy greens, top with bright pickled vegetables, and add dollops of your favorite sauces. For casual meals, wrap it all up in warm pita bread with a handful of fresh veggies for an easy and delicious handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your chicken shawarma cools, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Chicken Shawarma Recipe for longer, freeze cooked slices in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will hold its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Covering it slightly helps retain moisture, and a quick broil for a minute or two can revive a bit of crispiness. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful, chicken breast works well if you prefer leaner meat. Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid over-drying.
Do I have to marinate overnight?
Marinating for at least 2 hours will give you tasty results, but overnight marinating really makes the chicken more tender and flavorful, so it’s worth the wait if possible.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a warm spice profile that’s fragrant rather than fiery. You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit it altogether depending on your heat preference.
Can I cook the chicken shawarma on a grill?
Yes, grilling imparts a lovely smoky char that’s perfect for chicken shawarma. Just cook over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
What sauces pair well with chicken shawarma?
Garlic sauce, tahini, or even a simple yogurt sauce with a squeeze of lemon are fantastic options that complement the spices and add richness to the dish.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Chicken Shawarma Recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to meals for flavor and simplicity. The blend of spices, tender chicken, and easy cooking methods make it an absolute winner. I encourage you to give it a shot and bring a taste of Middle Eastern magic right to your kitchen table!
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Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This authentic Chicken Shawarma recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of Middle Eastern spices and yogurt, then roasted or grilled to perfection. Served with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and your choice of garlic sauce or tahini, it offers a delicious and easy way to bring the bold flavors of the Middle East to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to create a rich and flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the meat.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if roasting, or heat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. For roasting, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred. If grilling or using a skillet, cook the chicken pieces for 5 to 7 minutes per side until thoroughly cooked with a nice char.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices. Then, slice the chicken thinly. Serve warm with pita bread, fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, and your favorite sauces such as garlic sauce or tahini for an authentic shawarma experience.
Notes
- For a crispier finish, place the cooked chicken under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes after roasting.
- You can also cook this recipe conveniently in an air fryer at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.
- While chicken thighs are recommended for juiciness and flavor, you can substitute with chicken breast if preferred.
