Learn how to make Chicken Shawarma at home with this easy recipe! This Middle Eastern favorite features tender, marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Pita bread, for serving
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, for garnish
- Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce, for serving
How to Make Chicken Shawarma
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
- Prepare the Chicken: Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Rest and Slice: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly across the grain.
- Assemble the Shawarma: Warm pita bread and spread a generous amount of tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce on each piece. Add sliced chicken and garnish with tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
- Serve: Roll up the pita bread tightly and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Shawarma!
About the Main Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they are ideal for marinating and grilling.
- Yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor to the marinade.
- Spices: Cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon create the signature Shawarma flavor profile.
- Tahini Sauce: A creamy sesame paste sauce that enhances the dish with its nutty flavor.
Now you can enjoy authentic Chicken Shawarma right in your own kitchen! Perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal any time of the week.
