If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors and melts in your mouth, the Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines perfectly seasoned, tender chicken thighs roasted to juicy perfection alongside a luscious, garlicky sauce that adds the ideal creamy tang. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or impressing friends, this dish delivers bold spice, smooth texture, and a comforting warmth that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is in its simple yet powerful ingredient list. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, tender texture, and that beautiful, inviting color everyone loves in shawarma.
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these are the perfect cut for shawarma because they stay tender and absorb spices well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and promotes a lovely roast crispness on the edges.
- 2 tbsp shawarma seasoning: The star spice blend that infuses authentic Middle Eastern flavors into the chicken.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky depth and a gorgeous reddish hue to the chicken.
- 1/4 tsp cumin: Brings an earthy warmth that is essential for that classic shawarma taste.
- 1/4 tsp turmeric: Adds vibrant color and a subtle aromatic hint to balance the spices.
- 1/2 cup yogurt: Gives the creamy garlic sauce a tangy base and extra moisture for richness.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise: Increases creaminess and smooth texture in the garlic sauce.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Packs a punch of fresh garlicky flavor that makes the sauce irresistibly savory.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors and brings balance to both the chicken and sauce.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it; this will prevent sticking and help your chicken cook evenly with a nice finish.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil first to ensure all the spices stick beautifully. Sprinkle the shawarma seasoning generously over each piece, making sure every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on your baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through and slightly crisp around the edges, giving you that perfect balance of juicy and tender with a hint of char.
Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is roasting, mix together the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This velvety sauce will complement the spices perfectly and add a fresh, cool contrast.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute making the chicken even more succulent. Then slice or shred it, ready for serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the chicken alongside the creamy garlic sauce either drizzled on top or served on the side. You can load it up in pita bread, garnish with fresh veggies, or pile it over fluffy rice – the choice is yours!
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can truly elevate this dish. Consider chopped parsley, sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, or pickled turnips to add crispy texture and a vibrant pop of color. A sprinkle of chili flakes or sumac can also bring a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy garlic sauce.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines when paired with classic sides like warm pita bread, tabbouleh salad, or a smooth hummus dip. Roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber yogurt salad also make refreshing complements that balance the rich and aromatic flavors of the shawarma.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by turning the chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce into a shawarma bowl topped with greens, pickles, and a drizzle of tahini. Or wrap it tightly in flatbread for a portable shawarma wrap that’s perfect for picnics or casual lunches. The possibilities are endless and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them apart preserves the texture and prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the chicken shawarma, wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging and store for up to two months. Freeze the garlic sauce separately in a small container, as freezing can affect its creamy texture slightly.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or oven to retain its juiciness and crisp edges. The sauce is best served cold or at room temperature, so add it fresh after reheating the chicken for the best flavor combination.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts can be used, thighs are preferred because they remain juicier and absorb the shawarma spices better. Breasts may dry out faster during roasting.
Is shawarma seasoning hard to find?
Most supermarkets or Middle Eastern grocery stores carry shawarma seasoning. Alternatively, you can make your own blend using spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, and garlic powder.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the yogurt and mayonnaise for dairy-free versions or use a cashew-based cream with garlic to keep that creamy texture and flavor without dairy.
How spicy is the chicken shawarma?
The heat level depends on your shawarma seasoning blend. Typically, it’s mild to medium, but you can adjust by adding chili powder or cayenne pepper if you want more heat.
What’s the best way to serve leftover chicken shawarma?
Leftovers are fantastic for wraps, salads, or even mixed into grain bowls. Just reheat the chicken and pair it with fresh veggies and your creamy garlic sauce for a delicious quick meal.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is quickly becoming one of my favorite weeknight go-tos because it’s simple, full of incredible flavor, and endlessly versatile. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients, fire up that oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug with every bite!
Print
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
This flavorful Chicken Shawarma recipe features tender, marinated boneless chicken thighs roasted to perfection and served with a creamy garlic sauce. The aromatic blend of shawarma seasoning and spices gives the chicken a vibrant Middle Eastern flair. Quick to prepare and versatile, it can be enjoyed in pita bread, salads, or over rice.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp shawarma seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs evenly with olive oil and the shawarma seasoning mix including paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to ensure flavorful, well-seasoned meat.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges, indicating caramelization and tenderness.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, mix yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl to create a smooth and tangy sauce.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing or shredding the meat.
- Serve: Serve the sliced chicken with the creamy garlic sauce either drizzled on top or on the side. It pairs wonderfully with pita bread, fresh salad, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with the spices and yogurt.
- You can substitute boneless chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs yield juicier results.
- Adjust the garlic amount in the sauce to suit your taste.
- Serve with fresh vegetables or pickles for authentic shawarma experience.
