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Ultimate Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Transport your tastebuds to the Mediterranean with this authentic chicken shawarma recipe that brings the flavor of street food right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe features tender marinated chicken and a creamy garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, sliced thin
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Pita bread or flatbreads
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Lettuce or shredded cabbage
  • Pickled vegetables (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices. Mix until you have a smooth, aromatic paste. Add the sliced chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  2. Make the Garlic Sauce: While the chicken marinates, prepare the garlic sauce by whisking together yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley. Season with salt to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (shaking off excess) and cook in batches for 4-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. For even cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan.
  4. Assemble Your Shawarma: Warm your pita bread briefly in the oven or a dry pan. Spread a generous amount of garlic sauce on the bread, then add cooked chicken strips, fresh vegetables, and any additional toppings you prefer.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Roll the shawarma tightly and serve immediately. The combination of warm spiced chicken and cool creamy sauce creates the perfect balance of flavors.

Notes

Slice Thin: Cutting the chicken into thin strips ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs the marinade better. Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate (up to 24 hours), the more flavorful your chicken will be. Perfect Meal Prep: This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Cook a double batch and store for quick lunches throughout the week.