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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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 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
  • 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)
  • Pita bread or flatbread
  • Lettuce or cabbage
  • Tomato slices
  • Onion slices
  • Tahini (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices until well combined.
  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.
  3. 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.
  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.
  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 wraps.

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Slice chicken against the grain for tender bites. Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking. Warm pita bread briefly for better texture.