This easy Chicken Shawarma is packed with flavor! Tender chicken is marinated with spices and served in warm pita bread. The creamy garlic sauce adds a tasty twist that everyone loves!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of that garlic sauce! It’s so good, I end up using it on everything. Trust me, this is a perfect dish for a quick and satisfying meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their moist texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts. Just note they might dry out more easily, so be careful not to overcook them!
Spices: The spices are what really make this shawarma special. If you don’t have all of them, you can use a store-bought shawarma spice blend or substitute with taco seasoning for a different twist.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you could use low-fat yogurt or even plain sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is the go-to for cooking and flavor. If you need an alternative, avocado oil works well too and has a high smoke point.
Why is Marinating Important?
Marinating the chicken really enhances the flavors. It allows the spices to penetrate and tenderize the meat. For best results, aim for at least an hour, but overnight is even better. Remember to keep it covered in the fridge for food safety!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
To cook the chicken just right, choose medium-high heat for your grill or skillet. Here’s the trick: cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, ensuring you don’t flip it too often. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
What’s the Best Way to Assemble Shawarma?
For assembly, warm your pita breads first. It makes them soft and easy to fold. Spread a nice dollop of creamy garlic sauce, add those juicy chicken strips, then pile on the fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes. A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh kick!
Enjoy crafting this delicious Chicken Shawarma at home. It’s simple, customizable, and sure to satisfy your cravings!
Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced tomatoes
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Pickles (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious Chicken Shawarma takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus additional time for marinating (1 hour minimum, but ideally 3-4 hours or overnight). Cooking the chicken will take about 15-20 minutes. In total, set aside about 2 hours to ensure the best flavor!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until well combined. This will become the flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let it marinate for 3-4 hours or even overnight.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
4. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat a grill pan, skillet, or grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Slice:
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy! Slice the chicken into thin strips.
6. Assemble:
Warm the pita breads or flatbreads. Spread a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce on each pita, then top with the sliced chicken. Add in fresh cucumber slices, juicy tomatoes, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro. Don’t forget the pickles if you like!
7. Serve:
Fold the pita wraps and enjoy immediately! The flavors come together beautifully, and you’ll love how easy this dish is to make!
Enjoy your homemade Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster and can dry out more easily, so be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or plain regular yogurt. For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt works well and adds a unique flavor!
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but ideally, allow it to sit for 3-4 hours or overnight. This helps the spices penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a day in advance. You can also make the garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready to serve!
