Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly spiced piece of chicken, its juices exploding with flavor as you wrap it in a warm piece of flatbread, topped with fresh veggies and a delightfully creamy garlic sauce. That’s the magic of Chicken Shawarma, a beloved dish from the Middle East, celebrated for its savory spices and satisfying textures. This recipe offers a symphony of flavors, with juicy chicken thighs marinated to perfection and grilled to achieve that delightful char, bringing street food right into your kitchen.
This Chicken Shawarma recipe stands out because of its simplicity. The process requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet gives it a beautiful sear — a technique that locks in moisture and enhances its flavor profile. Not only is the Chicken Shawarma delicious, but it’s also a healthy option, packed with protein and fresh vegetables, making it perfect for those mindful of their diet.
So, if you’re looking to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family or guests, this Chicken Shawarma recipe is your ultimate solution. Whether you go classic with lettuce and tomatoes or add your own twist, this dish promises to be a hit. Prepare to enjoy an explosion of rich, aromatic flavors wrapped in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of the chicken is marinated in a blend of spices that create a deeper, rich flavor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Customizable: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Quick Cooking Time: With 15 minutes of prep (plus marinating), you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Fun to Assemble: Wrapping your shawarma makes dining interactive and engaging for the whole family.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the easy and flavorful Chicken Shawarma preparation, it’s essential to set up your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all the ingredients and tools required for this recipe — this includes a large mixing bowl for marinating, a skillet or grill pan for cooking, and a sharp knife for slicing the cooked chicken. A cutting board is also a must-have for assembling your wraps.
Marinating the chicken is crucial in achieving that tender, flavorful result. Allow at least an hour for the chicken to soak up the spices; for the best results, consider marinating it overnight. This advance preparation can save you time on busy weeknights and ensure your meal is bursting with flavor. Additionally, don’t forget about your serving dishes — you’ll want to present your beautiful Chicken Shawarma in style!
Ingredients
- 900 grams boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 120 grams plain yogurt (about 1/2 cup)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 6 large flatbreads or pita
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup garlic sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing a marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, plain yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until you create a smooth mixture. Next, add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour — the longer, the better. Overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat; if necessary, lightly coat it with oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the hot skillet. Cook each side for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, ensuring it’s browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and give it a few minutes to rest before slicing, which helps maintain its juiciness.
Step 3: Assemble the Shawarma
After resting, slice the chicken thighs into thin strips, which makes for easier wrapping and even bites. Now, it’s time to prepare the flatbreads. Warm them slightly in the skillet or microwave until they become pliable. On each piece of warm flatbread, layer slices of the juicy chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Finish with a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce to add that extra touch of flavor. Carefully wrap the flatbread around the fillings to create a lovely shawarma wrap and serve immediately for the best experience.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast, beef, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Try adding cucumber slices, shredded carrots, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or allspice for a different flavor profile, or add chili flakes for some heat.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavor.
- Allow space between each chicken piece in the pan for even cooking and browning.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of tabbouleh or fattoush salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A side of fries or roasted vegetables pairs perfectly for a heartier meal.
Tips
- Wrap leftover shawarma tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh for future meals.
- Consider making extras to enjoy in salads or sandwiches throughout the week.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
How can I make Chicken Shawarma more spicy?
To add some heat to your Chicken Shawarma, you can incorporate chili powder or cayenne pepper into the marinade. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.
Can I make this Chicken Shawarma in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day prior, and the cooked shawarma can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What sauces can I use instead of garlic sauce?
You can substitute garlic sauce with tahini sauce, tzatziki, or even hummus for a different taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Chicken Shawarma is perfect for meal prep. Prepare the chicken, let it cool completely, and store it in portioned containers for quick and easy meals during the week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Chicken Shawarma recipe encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine while being simple enough for home cooks of all levels. The marinated chicken, combined with fresh toppings wrapped in a soft flatbread, makes for a mouthwatering meal that’s enjoyable any day of the week. Not only can you indulge in its rich taste, but you can also customize it to reflect your preference. So, roll up your sleeves and give this Chicken Shawarma a try! Don’t forget to share your experience, leave a comment, and explore our variations. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Chicken Shawarma Recipe to Satisfy Your Cravings
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly spiced piece of chicken, its juices exploding with flavor as you wrap it in a warm piece of flatbread.
Ingredients
- 900 grams boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 120 grams plain yogurt (about 1/2 cup)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 6 large flatbreads or pita
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup garlic sauce
Instructions
- Start by preparing a marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, plain yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until you create a smooth mixture. Next, add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour — the longer, the better. Overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat; if necessary, lightly coat it with oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the hot skillet. Cook each side for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, ensuring it’s browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and give it a few minutes to rest before slicing, which helps maintain its juiciness.
- After resting, slice the chicken thighs into thin strips, which makes for easier wrapping and even bites. Now, it’s time to prepare the flatbreads. Warm them slightly in the skillet or microwave until they become pliable. On each piece of warm flatbread, layer slices of the juicy chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Finish with a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce to add that extra touch of flavor. Carefully wrap the flatbread around the fillings to create a lovely shawarma wrap and serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Protein: 35 g