Garlic Chicken Shawarma is a delightful Middle Eastern dish that brings the bold and vibrant flavors of traditional shawarma to your kitchen. This easy-to-prepare recipe highlights succulent chicken marinated in a blend of garlic and spices, creating a mouthwatering experience wrapped in warm pita bread or flatbreads.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to make Garlic Chicken Shawarma at home. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that brings an exotic flair to your table, but it’s also versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Furthermore, making shawarma from scratch is healthier than store-bought versions, allowing you to control the ingredients and ensure the quality of your meal.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Shawarma

Creating Garlic Chicken Shawarma is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow the steps below to enjoy this flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients:

Chicken thighs or breasts
Garlic
Yogurt
Shawarma spices (cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, etc.)
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Lemon juice
Pita bread or flatbreads
Mediterranean garlic sauce (or tahini sauce)
Vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, etc.) for serving

Directions:

In a bowl, mix together yogurt, minced garlic, shawarma spices, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
Add the chicken to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Preheat the grill or oven to a medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook on the grill or in the oven until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
Serve the chicken in pita bread or flatbreads, topped with Mediterranean garlic sauce and your choice of vegetables.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Shawarma

To serve Garlic Chicken Shawarma, lay warm pita bread or flatbreads on a plate and generously layer the sliced chicken on top. Drizzle with Mediterranean garlic sauce or tahini sauce and pile on fresh, crunchy vegetables like chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Extra herbs like parsley or mint can add freshness to the dish. Fold the pita around the fillings for a delicious handheld meal that is perfect for lunches, dinners, or parties.

How to Store Garlic Chicken Shawarma

If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store the marinade-decorated chicken prior to cooking, it’s best to freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge before marinating and cooking again.

Tips to Make Garlic Chicken Shawarma

Experiment with the spices in your marinade to find your preferred flavor profile.
For a smokier flavor, try cooking the chicken on a grill.
Don’t rush the marinating process; allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors profoundly.
For a gluten-free option, serve the shawarma over a salad instead of in bread.

Variation

Feel free to try different proteins, such as beef or lamb, using the same marinade to create alternate versions of shawarma. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, use marinated, grilled eggplant or cauliflower steaks instead of chicken.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Q: What can I substitute for yogurt in the marinade?
A: If you are looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt alternative.

Q: Is there a different way to cook the chicken apart from grilling or baking?
A: Yes! You can also pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat or use a slow cooker for a tender version of the dish. Just ensure the chicken is cooked to the recommended internal temperature.