If you’ve ever craved that irresistible blend of spices and tender, juicy meat that transports you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East, you’re going to love this Chicken Shawarma Recipe. It combines a beautiful medley of warm spices, garlic, and lemon that infuse succulent chicken thighs with bold flavor and a hint of smokiness from the grill or pan. Every bite brings a welcoming burst of taste and texture that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Shawarma Recipe, it will become one of your favorite go-to meals to impress your family and friends effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential because each one plays a key role in building the authentic, luscious taste and texture of this Chicken Shawarma Recipe. They come together to create that signature fragrant, spiced crust and tender juiciness that defines shawarma.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juiciness and tenderness that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang while tenderizing the meat for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps carry the spices and ensures caramelization during cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Imparts deep aroma and savory notes that elevate every bite.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Brings warm, earthy undertones integral to the shawarma flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander: Adds a citrusy brightness that layers beautifully with cumin.
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika: Provides vibrant color and a mild sweetness with a hint of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Gives a golden hue and subtle warmth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers subtle sweetness and depth, balancing the spices perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Delivers a gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure nothing tastes flat.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the marinade and adds a fresh tang that cuts through the richness.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
Start by combining the plain yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, and all your spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt—in a large bowl. Add the lemon juice last to keep it fresh. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, aromatic blend that smells like a warm Middle Eastern bazaar. The marinade is the heart of your Chicken Shawarma Recipe, infusing the meat with that signature flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Toss the chicken thighs into the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator to soak up all those incredible flavors for at least 1 hour, though overnight is best if you can plan ahead. This step ensures your chicken becomes tender, juicy, and bursting with spice in every bite.
Step 3: Cook to perfection
Heat up your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Lay the marinated chicken thighs down and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to see some beautiful char marks and hear that sizzling sound—the signs of perfectly cooked shawarma. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is seriously mouthwatering. Once cooked through and slightly charred, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in those delicious juices.
Step 4: Slice and serve
Slice the rested chicken into thin strips, perfect for wrapping in warm pita bread or plating alongside your favorite sides. This final step reveals the juicy, spice-coated interior ready to dazzle your taste buds with each bite of this Chicken Shawarma Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your homemade Chicken Shawarma Recipe, don’t skip on the garnishes. Fresh parsley, thinly sliced red onions, and a sprinkle of sumac add brightness and crunch. Drizzle some garlicky tahini sauce or creamy garlic yogurt sauce for that irresistible creamy finish. Pickled vegetables or sliced cucumbers also add a fresh, tangy contrast that balances the spice wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Chicken shawarma is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. It pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or a fragrant herbed couscous salad. If you want something lighter, a crisp tabbouleh or fattoush salad is refreshing and colorful. Roasted vegetables, like eggplant or bell peppers, also complement the warm spices in the chicken perfectly while adding texture and earthiness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic shawarma wrap, try layering your Chicken Shawarma Recipe into a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa, fresh greens, and a drizzle of tahini dressing. Or pile it high on homemade flatbreads brushed with olive oil and garlic. For a fun party idea, serve the chicken on skewers alongside dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and labneh for a delicious Middle Eastern platter everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some extra Chicken Shawarma Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Keep garnishes and sauces separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness and texture.
Freezing
You can also freeze the cooked chicken for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, portion the chicken so you can thaw only what you need for a speedy meal without any waste.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that delightful charred exterior and juicy texture. Reheat just enough to enjoy warm, tender chicken reminiscent of freshly cooked shawarma.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can, but chicken thighs are preferable for this Chicken Shawarma Recipe because they stay tender and juicy during cooking. Breasts may dry out, so if you use them, marinate a bit longer and watch cooking time carefully.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour is needed to develop flavor, but marinating overnight gives the best taste and tenderness. The longer the chicken soaks, the more vibrant and succulent it becomes.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Baking at 425°F (220°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, creates a convenient oven version without losing the delicious spiced flavor.
What if I don’t have all the spices at home?
Try to use the essential spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric for a close approximation. The cinnamon and black pepper add complexity, but the dish is still delicious without every single one.
What are the best ways to enjoy leftover shawarma?
Leftover Chicken Shawarma Recipe is fantastic in salads, wrapped in pita for quick sandwiches, or tossed with grains like quinoa or rice for a flavorful meal prep option.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, this Chicken Shawarma Recipe is pure magic on a plate. It transforms your kitchen into a lively Middle Eastern feast filled with warm spices and irresistible aromas. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s a dish that brings people together and satisfies cravings like no other. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch this recipe quickly become a shining star in your culinary repertoire.
Print
Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Shawarma recipe features tender, flavorful boneless chicken thighs marinated in a blend of yogurt, olive oil, and Middle Eastern spices, then grilled to perfection. It’s a versatile dish perfect for serving with pita bread, rice, or salads, complete with optional traditional toppings like garlic sauce and pickled vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a grill, grill pan, or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot and ready for cooking. This will ensure a nice char and even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs onto the hot grill or pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is fully cooked through with a slight char on the outside.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Then slice the chicken into strips.
- Serve: Serve the sliced chicken warm alongside pita bread, rice, or salad. Enhance the dish with optional toppings like garlic sauce, hummus, or pickled vegetables for an authentic shawarma experience.
Notes
- You can bake the marinated chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a convenient oven alternative.
- Shawarma is excellent for meal prep — store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
