Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

The tantalizing aroma of spiced chicken sizzling on the grill can transform any ordinary evening into a delightful culinary experience. Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not only a flavorful dish that comes together in under an hour, but it also brings a taste of Middle Eastern street food right to your kitchen. The perfect blend of spices and the creamy garlic sauce is what makes this recipe a beloved go-to for family dinners.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to spice up their weeknight meals, impress guests at a gathering, or simply enjoy a homemade version of a classic favorite. Perfect for meal prep, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store any leftovers in the fridge for a quick lunch the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinated chicken is tender and juicy, imbued with rich spices.
• The homemade garlic sauce adds a creamy, zesty kick that layers flavor.
• Simple cooking methods make it easy to replicate at home.
• Fresh vegetables provide a delightful crunch that complements the shawarma perfectly.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make Chicken Shawarma:

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

For Serving

• Pita bread or wraps for serving
• Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce) for serving

Use boneless chicken breasts if preferred.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Greek yogurt can replace plain yogurt.
• Lemon juice can be substituted with vinegar.
• Use chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Adjust spices to taste for customized flavor.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken Shawarma.

Marinate

In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat them well. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Grill

Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Prepare Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, make the garlic sauce by mixing yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.

Slice

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.

Serve

Serve the sliced chicken in pita bread or wraps, topped with garlic sauce and fresh vegetables.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the texture may change.
Reheat: microwave on low for 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through.
• Sear the chicken for a crispy exterior while keeping it juicy inside.
• Garnish with extra garlic sauce and fresh herbs for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of tabbouleh or couscous salad.
• Enjoy with a refreshing drink like mint lemonade.
• Make it a fun build-your-own shawarma night with various toppings.