Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Middle Eastern Delight
Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful, aromatic dish beloved worldwide for its tender, spiced chicken and delicious accompaniments. Paired with a creamy garlic sauce, it’s perfect for wraps, rice bowls, or salads. This easy homemade recipe lets you enjoy restaurant-quality shawarma in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Optional Accompaniments:
- Pita bread or wraps
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce
- Pickles or pickled turnips
Calories Per Serving
- Chicken Shawarma: Approximately 300 calories per serving (without bread or additional toppings).
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: Approximately 70 calories per tablespoon.
How to Prepare Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne, pepper, and salt).
- Add the chicken thighs or breasts and coat them well with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked and charred at the edges. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Warm pita bread or wraps.
- Add sliced chicken shawarma, vegetables, and pickles, and drizzle with creamy garlic sauce.
- Roll up and serve, or serve the chicken and sauce over rice or a salad.
Advantages of This Recipe
- Authentic and Flavorful
The marinade for the chicken is rich with Middle Eastern spices, giving it an authentic and aromatic flavor. - Customizable
You can adjust the spice level, swap chicken for lamb or beef, or add toppings like hummus or tahini to suit your taste. - Healthy and Balanced
Chicken is a lean protein, and when paired with fresh vegetables and yogurt-based sauces, it creates a balanced meal. - Versatile
Enjoy the shawarma in wraps, over rice, as part of a salad, or even as a standalone dish. - Kid-Friendly
The creamy garlic sauce and mildly spiced chicken make this dish appealing to children, especially when served as a fun wrap. - Perfect for Meal Prep
The marinated chicken can be prepared in advance and cooked fresh, making it ideal for busy days or weekly meal prepping.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a dish that combines irresistible flavors with ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family meal, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe delivers every time.
Enjoy the taste of the Middle East at home! ????????
