Chicken Shawarma – Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a rich blend of spices—cumin, paprika, garlic, and a hint of cinnamon—then grilled to perfection. Served with a tangy garlic sauce, fresh vegetables, and wrapped in warm pita bread.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Shawarma
- Use Chicken Thighs: While chicken breast can be used, chicken thighs are preferred for shawarma due to their juiciness and flavor.
- Marinate Longer: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Grill or Skillet: The grilled or charred flavor is what sets shawarma apart, so try to grill the chicken or use a grill pan for that perfect smoky taste.
- Customize the Sauce: Some people prefer a garlic sauce, while others enjoy a tahini-based sauce. Feel free to adjust the ingredients in the shawarma sauce to match your taste.
Variations of Chicken Shawarma
While the classic Chicken Shawarma recipe is already a delight, there are several variations you can try based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Shawarma Wrap with French Fries
A popular street food variation is to add crispy French fries directly into the shawarma wrap. This extra layer of crunch makes the wrap even more satisfying.
Shawarma Salad Bowl
For a lighter alternative, serve the chicken over a bed of greens and top with vegetables, a yogurt-based dressing, and a sprinkle of pine nuts.
Vegan Shawarma
To create a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with marinated cauliflower or tempeh. The spices and sauce still deliver the same mouthwatering flavors.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma
Chicken Shawarma can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion or your personal preference. Here are some popular options:
- As a Wrap: The most common way to serve Shawarma is by wrapping it in warm pita or flatbread, making it an easy, portable meal.
- On a Plate with Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, accompanied by a side of vegetables, and drizzle with the shawarma sauce for a more substantial meal.
- As a Salad: For a fresh, lighter version, serve the chicken on a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs. Add a dollop of the shawarma sauce on top.
How to Store Chicken Shawarma
Leftover Chicken Shawarma can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here’s how to do it:
- For the Chicken: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
- For the Shawarma Sauce: The sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If it thickens, just add a little water or olive oil to loosen it up before serving.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
While chicken breast can be used, chicken thighs are preferred for shawarma because they are more flavorful and juicy. The fat in the thighs keeps the meat moist as it cooks.
2. Can I make the shawarma ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and make the shawarma sauce a day ahead. This will actually enhance the flavors. Just cook the chicken right before serving.
3. Can I make Shawarma without a grill?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can easily use a grill pan or even a regular skillet. The key is to get a nice sear on the chicken for that authentic flavor.
4. Is Shawarma gluten-free?
Shawarma itself is gluten-free, but the pita or flatbread typically contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flatbread or serve the chicken as a salad or with rice.
5. How can I make Shawarma spicier?
If you like your Shawarma with a kick, you can add some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a touch of harissa paste to the marinade for an extra layer of heat.
Chicken Shawarma
Chicken Shawarma - Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a rich blend of spices—cumin, paprika, garlic, and a hint of cinnamon—then grilled to perfection. Served with a tangy garlic sauce, fresh vegetables, and wrapped in warm pita bread.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 kg (2 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or 2 small cloves)
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or ½ tsp for a milder version)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 tsp cumin
- Squeeze of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- 4-5 flatbreads (pita, Lebanese, or homemade)
- Sliced lettuce (cos or iceberg)
- Sliced tomatoes
- Red onion, finely sliced
- Shredded cheese (optional)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- In a large ziplock bag, combine all marinade ingredients. Add the chicken, seal the bag, and massage it to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours (ideally 24 hours).
- Mix the yogurt sauce ingredients in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. It stays fresh for 3 days!
- Preheat a non-stick skillet with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat, or brush a BBQ grill with oil. Place the chicken on the skillet or grill, cooking the first side for 4-5 minutes until charred. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes, covered with foil.
- Slice the chicken and serve it on a platter with warm flatbreads, a fresh salad, and the yogurt sauce. To make a wrap, spread yogurt sauce on a flatbread, top with lettuce, tomato, and chicken, then roll it up.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 536Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 44mgSodium 1935mgCarbohydrates 71gFiber 6gSugar 6gProtein 26g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the vibrant spices of the Middle East right into your home. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight meal or making it for a special gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. By following these steps, you’ll be able to recreate this iconic dish with ease, and with a few creative variations, you can tailor it to your preferences. Don’t forget to share this recipe with family and friends—Shawarma is best enjoyed when it’s shared.
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