The Ultimate Chicken Shawarma Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Middle Eastern Perfection

Photo by ahmed kh. jami: Pexels

Introduction 

Are you yearning for the bold and irresistible flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine? Your search ends here! This ultimate Chicken Shawarma recipe is your gateway to a deliciously spiced, juicy, and satisfying meal that has global appeal. Just follow our step-by-step guide to recreate this street-food favorite in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make with common ingredients.
• Healthier than takeout, plus you can customize the toppings.
• Ideal for wraps, bowls, or salads.

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
  
  

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp tahini (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt to taste
  
  

For Serving:

• Pita bread or flatbreads
• Sliced cucumbers
• Diced tomatoes
• Pickled vegetables, if desired
• Fresh herbs like parsley or mint
• Hummus, as needed

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Take a large bowl. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices together.
2. 
   
3. Add chicken thighs and mix each piece well.
4. Cover and keep in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For better taste, keep overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Grill Method:

1. Preheat your grill at medium-high heat
2. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is charred and well cooked.

Stove top Method:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the chicken 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.

Pro Tip: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Whisk together in a small bowl Greek yogurt, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 4: Assemble Your Shawarma Wraps

1. Warm the pita bread by grilling or toasting in a pan.
2. Add a layer of hummus or yogurt sauce.
3. Add sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, and pickled vegetables.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle more of sauce.
5. Fold or roll up the wrap very tightly.
   
   

Serve Suggestions

• Serve with crispy fries or a side salad.
• Build a shawarma bowl over rice, add some veggies and extra sauce on top.
• Put a global spin by making Shawarma Tacos.
  
  

Tips for Success

• Marinate Longer: Overnight marination yields the best flavor.
• Use Thighs: Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts.
• Spice it Up: Adjust cayenne for more heat.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is sure to impress family and friends. Its bold flavors, along with a variety of serving options, make it a winner for any occasion.

Get ready to enjoy the magic of homemade shawarma. Feel free to drop comments below with your culinary adventures.

Further Reading
Global Comfort: Discover the Heartwarming Dishes That Soothe Souls Around the World