Mary KellyWhen it comes to vibrant, flavorful meals, chicken shawarma shines like a star. It’s an alluring dish with a rich history, originating from the Middle East, where meat is marinated and cooked on a vertical rotisserie. While that might sound fancy, I’m here to show you how to bring that tantalizing taste to your kitchen without the spinning contraption.
Before diving into this recipe, let’s talk about what you can pair with this delightful dish. Here are some standout options:
- Crisp Salad: A simple green or tabbouleh salad enhances the meal.
- Perfect Pita: Soft pita bread is perfect for wrapping shawarma.
- Fragrant Rice: Serve over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
- Zesty Dips: Hummus or tzatziki on the side adds a refreshing contrast.
Now, let’s get into the heart of the matter: the Easy Chicken Shawarma recipe!
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Imagine biting into a tender piece of chicken, bursting with spices that transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of the Middle East. This easy chicken shawarma recipe is a delightful gateway to that experience, offering you lots of flavor with minimal effort. As a registered dietitian and a passionate home cook, I’ve developed this dish to make it approachable and enjoyable for anyone keen to whip up something special.
What is Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe?
This recipe simplifies the traditional shawarma, using marinated chicken thighs cooked to juicy perfection. The marinade combines wonderful spices that bring depth and character. You’ll also whip up a zesty yogurt sauce to accompany it, adding freshness and creaminess to each bite.
Why This Recipe Works
This chicken shawarma recipe shines because of its balance of flavors. The spice mixture is crucial; it includes cumin, coriander, and cardamom that create an aromatic experience. Moreover, the yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with flavor. By grilling or pan-searing the chicken, you achieve a delightful char that elevates the dish. Plus, it’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients for easy reference:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 kg (2 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground green cardamom
- 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp smoked sweet paprika
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp fine sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup thick Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, mashed into a paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- A small squeeze of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint
To Serve:
- Shredded lettuce (cos or iceberg)
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Grated cheese (optional)
- 4-5 soft flatbreads (Lebanese, pita, or homemade)
- Ripe tomato slices
- Hot chili sauce or garlic sauce (optional)
How to Make Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Ready to dive in? Here’s a sneak peek into the process before we break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
First and foremost, you’ll create a vibrant marinade. In a large bowl, combine the coriander, garlic, cumin, cardamom, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, turmeric, and cinnamon. Whisk these together until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. You can use your hands for this or a spatula; just get in there! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. The longer it sits, the better the flavor.
Step 3: Make the Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken marinates, mix up the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mashed garlic, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped mint for that refreshing kick. Set this aside; it will be a wonderful accompaniment!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then place the marinated chicken in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, trust me!
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This is crucial as it helps to retain the juices. Then, slice the chicken into strips.
Step 6: Assemble Your Shawarma
Now comes the fun part! Take your flatbreads and layer them with shredded lettuce, sliced red onions, and those beautiful chicken strips. Drizzle with the yogurt sauce, add tomato slices, and include any additional toppings of your choice.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Wrap up your shawarma, and enjoy immediately. The combination of spices, textures, and flavors will surely make this a hit at your table!
Tips for Success
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. However, if you’re short on time, even an hour will do.
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy. However, if you prefer chicken breast, you can use that too.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce: The yogurt sauce adds necessary creaminess and balances the spices.
- Grill It: If weather permits, grill the chicken on an outdoor barbecue for added smokiness.
- Wrap It Right: Warming the flatbreads before assembly makes them pliable and enhances flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), you can store them in an airtight container. Keep the chicken and sauce separated to maintain freshness. Stored properly, the chicken will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave and enjoy.
Nutrition Information
For a serving that includes chicken and yogurt sauce wrapped in flatbread, you’re looking at approximately:
How Would I Recommend Serving Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe?
- Shawarma Bowls: Instead of wraps, serve the chicken over a bed of rice with yogurt sauce drizzled on top alongside fresh veggies.
- Shawarma Tacos: Swap flatbreads for soft tortillas. Add a dash of salsa for a fun twist.
- Mediterranean Platter: Plate the chicken and sides together with hummus, olives, and pickles for a vibrant and shareable experience.
- Shawarma Salad: Toss shredded lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions together in a bowl and top with sliced chicken and yogurt sauce for a fresh meal.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
- Chicken: Turkey thighs can work instead of chicken thighs for a lighter option.
- Greek Yogurt: Coconut yogurt serves as a dairy-free alternative that still provides creaminess.
- Ground Spices: If you can’t find cardamom, you can use allspice or simply skip it; the shawarma will still taste delicious.
- Flatbreads: Naan or tortillas can be used as substitutes for flatbreads depending on your preference or what you have available.
Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First and foremost, you’ll create a vibrant marinade. In a large bowl, combine the coriander, garlic, cumin, cardamom, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, turmeric, and cinnamon. Whisk these together until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. You can use your hands for this or a spatula; just get in there! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. The longer it sits, the better the flavor.
- While the chicken marinates, mix up the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mashed garlic, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped mint for that refreshing kick. Set this aside; it will be a wonderful accompaniment!
- After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then place the marinated chicken in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, trust me!
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This is crucial as it helps to retain the juices. Then, slice the chicken into strips.
- Now comes the fun part! Take your flatbreads and layer them with shredded lettuce, sliced red onions, and those beautiful chicken strips. Drizzle with the yogurt sauce, add tomato slices, and include any additional toppings of your choice.
- Wrap up your shawarma, and enjoy immediately. The combination of spices, textures, and flavors will surely make this a hit at your table!
Nutrition
Notes
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. However, if you’re short on time, even an hour will do.
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy. However, if you prefer chicken breast, you can use that too.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce: The yogurt sauce adds necessary creaminess and balances the spices.
- Grill It: If weather permits, grill the chicken on an outdoor barbecue for added smokiness.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts can be used, but watch the cooking time to prevent dryness.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe can be adjusted to your spice level. Reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper makes it milder.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! The cooked chicken can be frozen. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Add roasted peppers, cucumbers, or even grilled zucchini to play with textures.
6. Is this recipe healthy?
This recipe is quite healthy! It features lean protein, nutritious spices, and a fresh yogurt sauce, making it well-balanced.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy chicken shawarma recipe that’s bound to impress friends and family alike. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and can easily adapt to any dietary needs. Whether enjoyed in a wrap or as part of a salad, this dish brings the taste of the Middle East to your table.
So fire up that skillet, channel your inner chef, and prepare for a culinary journey that makes any everyday meal feel special. Happy cooking!
