This Easy Chicken Shawarma is like a flavor party! Juicy chicken marinated with tasty spices, all wrapped up with a garlic sauce that’s creamy and dreamy. Yum!
I love making this on busy nights; it’s quick and always hits the spot. Plus, that creamy garlic sauce? It’s so good you’ll want to put it on everything! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either boneless, skinless thighs or breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts are leaner. If you want a vegetarian option, try marinating tofu or mushrooms instead—just adjust cooking time!
Spices: Ground cumin and paprika are must-haves for that classic shawarma flavor. If you’re out of cumin, you can use chili powder. Feel free to try other spices like allspice or smoked paprika for a twist!
Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives the sauce a rich creaminess, but regular yogurt works too. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. They’ll both add a nice texture!
Cayenne Pepper: This ingredient adds heat, but you can skip it or substitute with a milder spice like smoked paprika if you’re not a fan of spice. Adjust to your taste preference!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken shawarma is in the marinating process. This helps the chicken soak up all the spices and yogurt flavor, making it tender. Here’s how to get it right:
- Marinate for a minimum of 1 hour; if you have time, go for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge. It really makes a difference in flavor!
- Cook on medium-high heat. This keeps the outside from burning while ensuring the inside cooks thoroughly.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps retain the juices, making every bite delicious.
With these tips, you’ll have an amazing Chicken Shawarma that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any meal! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or flatbreads, for serving
- Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll also need at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken, but if you can let it marinate for 3–4 hours or overnight, it enhances the flavor even more. Cooking the chicken will take about 10–15 minutes, so in total, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on your marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are blended and you have a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If possible, let it marinate for 3–4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Once marinated, heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice browned exterior. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Slice the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken thinly against the grain for the best texture.
6. Assemble the Shawarma:
Take warm pita or flatbread and fill it with the sliced chicken shawarma. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken and add any optional toppings you like, such as sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
7. Enjoy!
Your delicious Easy Chicken Shawarma is ready to serve! Enjoy it immediately for the best flavor and freshness.
This recipe combines mouth-watering spices with a creamy garlic sauce, making it a quick and tasty dish you can whip up any time. Happy cooking! 🌯
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 be mindful that they may cook a bit faster and can become dry if overcooked. Aim for a cooking time of about 4-6 minutes per side.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 1 hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, try to marinate it for 3–4 hours or even overnight in the fridge. Just ensure it’s covered securely!
How Do I Store Leftover Shawarma?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The creamy garlic sauce can be kept in the fridge for about a week.
Can I Make the Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. This can actually help the flavors meld together even better!
