Savor the rich flavors of the Middle East with this homemade Chicken Shawarma recipe. This dish brings the traditional spices and aromatics of shawarma right into your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy the tender, juicy chicken wrapped in a warm pita or served over rice. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this Chicken Shawarma is marinated in a blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the streets of your favorite shawarma spot. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and create this delicious, flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
Pita bread or rice
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced cucumbers
Onion slices
Tzatziki sauce or hummus
Directions:
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, allspice, turmeric, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss until they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 30-40 minutes.
Prepare for Serving: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
Assemble and Serve: Serve the sliced chicken shawarma wrapped in warm pita bread with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce or hummus. Alternatively, serve over a bed of rice with the same accompaniments.
Prep Time: 15 minutes + marinating time
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes + marinating time
Servings: 4-6
This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures, combining succulent chicken with the vibrant spices of the Middle East. Whether you’re enjoying it in a pita wrap or over rice, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.