This Easy Chicken Shawarma is full of tasty spices and juicy chicken, wrapped in a soft pita. The creamy garlic sauce adds a smooth and zesty kick you’ll love!
It’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep! I like to load mine up with fresh veggies for extra crunch. Who needs takeout when you can make this at home? 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, breasts are a great choice. You can even use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Spices: Cumin, paprika, and coriander are key for that authentic shawarma flavor. If you don’t have all of them, swap with seasoning blends like taco seasoning, which can give a different yet tasty flavor profile!
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient is perfect for the sauce’s creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using coconut yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt to maintain a similar texture.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky without drying it out. Follow these tips for juicy results:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes; 1-2 hours is even better to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Medium-high heat is crucial. It cooks the chicken quickly without overcooking.
- Cook in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground paprika
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- Warm pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onion
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Cooking will take an additional 15 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes preparing this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the bowl and toss well to coat all the pieces in the marinade. Cover it and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though 1-2 hours gives even better flavor.
2. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing until smooth. Set this aside in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding). Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and beautifully browned.
4. Warm the Pita:
While the chicken is cooking, warm your pita bread or flatbreads in a dry skillet or the oven briefly, just enough to make them pliable for wrapping.
5. Assemble the Shawarma:
Spread a generous spoonful of the creamy garlic sauce on each warmed pita. Layer the cooked chicken slices on top, then add your choice of sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and fresh herbs to each wrap.
6. Serve Immediately:
Roll or fold the pitas to enclose the delicious fillings. Enjoy your flavorful homemade chicken shawarma with a side of extra garlic sauce if you like it creamy!
This Easy Chicken Shawarma is not only quick to make but also bursts with authentic Middle Eastern flavors that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While chicken is classic, you can use beef or lamb for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the meat is cooked to the appropriate safe temperature.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
For more heat, try adding extra cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the marinade. You can also serve the shawarma with a spicy garlic sauce or hot sauce on the side!
Can I Make the Garlic Sauce in Advance?
Yes! The creamy garlic sauce can be made one day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and it’s ready to go!
What Are the Best Leftovers Storage Tips?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, warm it gently in a skillet to avoid drying it out, and enjoy it again in wraps or salads!
