Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that everyone loves! Discover how to create the ultimate recipe with perfectly spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces. Tender, spiced chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces makes for an irresistible meal. Here’s a detailed recipe to prepare authentic Chicken Shawarma at home.

 

What is Chicken Shawarma Actually?

Chicken Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that features thinly sliced marinated chicken, often served in a wrap or on a platter. It has its origins in the Levant region and is now widely enjoyed across the world due to its flavorful combination of spices and tender texture.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what Chicken Shawarma is:

1. Preparation and Cooking Style

• Marination: The chicken is typically marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and ingredients such as garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, yogurt, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and black pepper. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a complex and tangy flavor.

• Cooking: Traditionally, the marinated chicken is stacked in layers on a vertical spit and slow-roasted. The rotating spit ensures even cooking and gives the shawarma its signature juicy yet slightly charred texture. However, in-home or small-scale preparations, the chicken can be cooked in a pan, skillet, or in the oven.

  

2. Ingredients

• Main Ingredient: Boneless chicken thighs or breasts are most commonly used. Thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor.

• Spices: A mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika plays a central role in defining the taste of shawarma.

• Marinade Base: Lemon juice, yogurt, and olive oil are essential for the marinade, ensuring the chicken stays tender and flavorful.

3. Serving Styles

• Wrap: Chicken Shawarma is often served in warm pita bread or flatbread, filled with slices of chicken, fresh vegetables (like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers), and sauces such as garlic sauce, tahini, or hummus.

• Platter: It can also be served on a plate alongside rice, fries, pickled vegetables, and salads like tabbouleh or fattoush.

4. Flavor Profile

• Chicken Shawarma is a symphony of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors. The balance of lemony tang, earthy spices, and charred meat makes it a satisfying and flavorful dish.

5. Cultural Significance

• Shawarma is a street food staple in the Middle East and has gained global popularity as a fast, delicious, and versatile meal. It’s enjoyed by people of various cultures, and its preparation varies slightly by region, incorporating local spices and toppings.

6. Modern Variations

• In some regions, shawarma is adapted with other meats like beef, lamb, or turkey.

• Fusion versions include shawarma tacos, shawarma pizza, or even shawarma bowls for health-conscious eaters.

Chicken Shawarma embodies the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine: a mix of bold spices, meticulous cooking techniques, and vibrant flavors that delight the senses.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

– 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

– 3 tablespoons plain yogurt

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 teaspoons ground cumin

– 2 teaspoons ground paprika

– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

– 1 teaspoon ground coriander

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)

– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

– Salt to taste

– Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce (Toumeh):

– ½ cup mayonnaise

– ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– Salt to taste

For the Salad:

– 1 cup chopped lettuce

– 1 cup chopped cucumbers

– 1 cup chopped tomatoes

– ½ cup sliced red onions

– ½ cup pickled turnips (optional, but traditional)

For Serving:

– 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads

– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

3. Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the marinade.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat for maximum taste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. If using the oven, temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

3. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce (Toumeh)

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice. place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.

2. If grilling, cook the chicken on the grill pan for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the internal tem

3. Season with salt to taste and mix until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and pickled turnips if using.

2. Toss the vegetables lightly to mix.

Step 5: Assemble the Shawarma

1. Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in a pan or microwave for a few seconds.

2. Place a generous portion of sliced chicken in the center of the bread.

3. Add the prepared salad on top of the chicken.

4. Drizzle with the garlic sauce.

5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

6. Fold the bread to create a wrap or leave it open-faced if preferred.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Shawarma

Marinate Longer:** For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

Use Thighs for Juiciness:** Chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful compared to breasts.

Serve with Extra Sides:** Pair the shawarma with hummus, tahini sauce, or a side of fries for a complete meal.

Experiment with Spices:** Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preference.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

– Calories: 450-500 (varies with portion size and toppings)

– Protein: 35g

– Carbohydrates: 30g

– Fat: 20g

– Fiber: 4g

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Shawarma with friends and family! This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a party snack.