Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the smoky, spiced goodness of chicken shawarma with a creamy, garlicky sauce that enhances every bite. The marinade infuses the chicken with a blend of aromatic spices, while the garlic sauce adds a velvety finish. Whether served in a pita wrap or over rice, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Shawarma:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 2 teaspoons ground paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

• Warm pita bread or flatbread

• Optional: Sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, pickled turnips

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
   In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
   Refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Chicken:
   Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet over medium-high heat.
   Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
   Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. Assemble the Shawarma:
   Place sliced chicken onto warm pita or flatbread.
   Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce.
   Top with chopped parsley and optional vegetables.
   Roll up the bread to enclose the filling.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Marination Time: 1 hour (overnight recommended)

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Shawarma: Add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with marinated tofu or jackfruit for a plant-based version.

• Gluten-Free: Serve the shawarma over a bed of rice or in gluten-free wraps.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise alternatives for the garlic sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked chicken and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Reheat garlic sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to maintain its creamy texture.

FAQs

How can I make the garlic sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the garlic sauce mixture.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less juicy. Consider marinating them longer to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

While marinating for at least 1 hour is essential, marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in more flavorful chicken.

Can I prepare the garlic sauce in advance?

Yes, the garlic sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What sides pair well with chicken shawarma?

Serve with tabbouleh, hummus, falafel, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat for a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor to the chicken. Ensure the grill is preheated and the chicken is cooked through.

What can I use instead of pita bread?

Flatbreads, lavash, or even lettuce wraps can be used as alternatives to pita bread.

How do I prevent the garlic sauce from separating?

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing and whisk thoroughly to emulsify the sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the taste of the Middle East to your table. With its aromatic spices and rich sauce, it's sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe offers a delightful dining experience.