This Easy Chicken Shawarma combines juicy, spiced chicken with a rich and creamy garlic sauce. It’s a delicious way to wrap up dinner that the whole family will love!
You can serve it in warm pita bread with fresh veggies for a fun twist. Trust me, the garlic sauce is so good, you might want to put it on everything! 😄
I love how quick it is to make—just season, cook, and enjoy! It’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something tasty without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Thighs tend to hold moisture better, making them the perfect choice!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or canola oil works well too. Just use something with a high smoke point!
Spices: The blend of spices gives this shawarma its unique flavor. If you’re missing one, try to keep the cumin and paprika, as they are key. You can also play around with spices you have at home, using curry powder can add a fun twist!
Greek Yogurt: It’s perfect for the creamy garlic sauce. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a dairy-free yogurt alternative. It won’t be the same, but it can still be delicious!
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Flavor?
Marinating is an important step to infuse flavor into the chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a bowl and combine all marinade ingredients thoroughly. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Add the chicken and mix it well, making sure every piece is coated.
- Cover it up! Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is even better. This allows the spices to penetrate the chicken.
Just remember—no rushing! The longer it marinates, the tastier it gets!
Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground paprika
- 1 ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Warm pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced tomatoes
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Pickles (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 6-8 minutes to cook the chicken. For the best flavor, plan to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, 1-2 hours. Overall, you’ll likely spend around 1 hour before enjoying a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, allspice, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix them well to form a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the thinly sliced chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss well to ensure that every piece of chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even up to 2 hours, for maximum flavor.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
5. Warm the Pita Bread:
While the chicken is cooking, warm the pita bread in a dry pan or in the oven. Soft, warm pita makes for the perfect wrap!
6. Assemble your Shawarma:
To assemble, spread a generous spoonful of creamy garlic sauce on each warm pita. Add a portion of the cooked chicken, then top with sliced cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, chopped parsley or cilantro, and pickles if you’d like. Feel free to load it up!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Roll up or fold the pita to enclose your delicious filling and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your easy chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce!
This recipe serves about 4 portions, perfect for a family dinner or sharing with friends!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs add juiciness and flavor, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as breasts may cook a little faster.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute, sour cream works great for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a dairy-free yogurt alternative like almond or coconut yogurt!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Shawarma?
Leftover chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the pita fresh, store it separately. Just reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving!
Can I Make the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to deepen even more, making your shawarma even more delicious!
