Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Bring the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food into your kitchen with this incredibly flavorful chicken shawarma recipe. The combination of perfectly spiced, marinated chicken and creamy garlic sauce creates an unforgettable Mediterranean dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. This easy shawarma dinner captures the authentic taste of street food while being completely homemade and healthy.
If you love easy chicken dishes, you might also enjoy our ultimate Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe for another simple weeknight option.
Shawarma Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh dill or mint (optional)
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Lettuce or cabbage
- Tomato slices
- Onion slices
- Tahini (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices until well combined. This shawarma marinade creates the signature Middle Eastern flavor profile that makes this dish so special.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration. This meal prep chicken step ensures tender, flavorful results.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare your creamy yogurt garlic sauce. Combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
For another delicious creamy sauce option, check out our creamy Mexican chicken with cheese sauce recipe.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through and nicely charred. For authentic grilled chicken shawarma texture, make sure you get good grill marks on both sides.
Step 5: Assemble the Shawarma Wraps
Warm your pita bread slightly. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Spread garlic sauce on the pita, then add lettuce, tomato, onion, and the sliced chicken. Roll tightly to create perfect pita wrap dinners.
If you’re looking for another warm weather meal, our KFC coleslaw copycat recipe makes a great side dish for your Mediterranean dinner.
Expert Tips for Perfect Shawarma
- Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight
- Slice against the grain: This ensures tender bites in your healthy chicken wrap
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary for proper browning
- Warm your pita: Briefly toast or warm pita bread for better texture
- Make it a meal prep star: Double the recipe and use leftovers for lunches
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well but may be slightly less juicy. Reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side to prevent drying out.
How long does the garlic sauce keep?
The yogurt garlic sauce will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Give it a stir before serving if it separates slightly.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. You won’t get grill marks but the flavor will still be delicious.
What sides go well with shawarma?
Serve with rice pilaf, hummus, tabbouleh, or a simple salad. For another comforting chicken dish, try our homemade white chicken chili recipe as an alternative dinner option.
Is shawarma healthy?
This recipe is quite healthy! Chicken provides lean protein, and the yogurt-based sauce is much healthier than traditional mayonnaise-based versions. You control the ingredients and can customize to your dietary needs.
Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: While the chicken marinates, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through and nicely charred.
- Assemble the Shawarma Wraps: Warm your pita bread slightly. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Spread garlic sauce on the pita, then add lettuce, tomato, onion, and the sliced chicken. Roll tightly to create perfect pita wraps.
