Chicken Shawarma recipe

Chicken Shawarma

by @foodieease
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
1hr

A flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated and baked chicken thighs served in pita or flatbreads with fresh toppings and sauces.

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 pita with chicken and toppings)

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 2lb
    boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
  • 4clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1piece
    lemon, juiced
  • 2tbsp
    olive oil
  • 1tsp
    ground cumin
  • 1tsp
    ground paprika
  • 1tsp
    ground turmeric
  • 1tsp
    ground coriander
  • 1tsp
    ground cinnamon
  • 1tsp
    ground black pepper
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1/2tsp
    ground cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving

  • 4piece
    whole wheat pita or flatbreads
  • 1piece
    tomato, sliced
  • 1piece
    cucumber, sliced
  • 1piece
    red onion, sliced
  • 1bundle
    lettuce

For the Sauce

  • 1/2cup
    yogurt
  • 1clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1piece
    lemon, juiced
  • 1pinch
    salt

How to make Chicken Shawarma

Marinate the Chicken

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

  2. Add the chicken slices to the marinade and mix well to ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated.

  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.

Cook the Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Spread the marinated chicken slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.

  3. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.

Assemble the Shawarma

  1. Serve the chicken in whole wheat pita or flatbreads.

  2. Add toppings such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lettuce.

  3. Drizzle with tahini sauce or a garlic yogurt sauce (yogurt mixed with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt).

Tips & Tricks

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

  2. You can also grill the chicken instead of baking it for a smoky flavor.

  3. Serve with pickled vegetables for an authentic touch.