Spicy Chicken Shawarma Tacos recipe

Spicy Chicken Shawarma Tacos

by @chefspalette
Prep Time
40min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
55min

This fusion recipe combines Middle Eastern flavors with a Mexican twist, perfect for a satisfying yet easy Ramadan iftar meal. Juicy chicken shawarma meets soft tacos, creating a delicious blend of spices and textures.

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 2 tacos)

For the Chicken Shawarma

  • 500g
    boneless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced thin
  • 2tbsp
    plain yogurt
  • 2tbsp
    olive oil
  • 1tbsp
    lemon juice
  • 2clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1tsp
    ground cumin
  • 1tsp
    ground coriander
  • 1tsp
    smoked paprika
  • 1/2tsp
    turmeric
  • 1/2tsp
    ground cinnamon
  • 1/2tsp
    cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

  • 6piece
    small soft tortillas
  • 1/2cup
    garlic yogurt sauce (or plain yogurt mixed with minced garlic and lemon juice)
  • 1piece
    cucumber, diced
  • 1piece
    tomato, diced
  • 1/2piece
    red onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Pickled jalapeños (optional for extra heat)

How to make Spicy Chicken Shawarma Tacos

Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

  2. Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, coating it well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, a few hours for better flavor.

Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, and once hot, cook the marinated chicken slices for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

  2. Set aside to rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Tacos

  1. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave for a few seconds to soften them.

  2. Spread a spoonful of garlic yogurt sauce on each tortilla.

Assemble the Shawarma Tacos

  1. Add a generous portion of chicken shawarma to each tortilla.

  2. Top with diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, and fresh herbs. For extra flavor, add pickled jalapeños if you like a kick.

  3. Drizzle more garlic yogurt sauce on top.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the tacos with a side of salad or fries for a complete iftar meal.

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

  2. You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.

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Recipe by

@chefspalette

Chefspalette is a culinary artist known for her innovative fusion recipes that merge traditional flavors with modern twists. Writing for Chefadora involves exploring diverse cuisines,...