The Chicken Shawarma Recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of the Middle East into your home kitchen. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. With its bold spices and smoky flavor, it stands out as a crowd-pleaser. The juicy grilled chicken can be served in wraps, on rice, or alongside fresh salads, making it not only delicious but also versatile for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The marinade is infused with aromatic spices that elevate the chicken to a whole new level.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it in wraps, on a platter with dips, or over rice for a hearty meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and flavorful herbs, this dish is a wholesome choice for all eaters.
- Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started with the Chicken Shawarma Recipe, ensure you have the right tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Zip-top bag (optional)
- Meat tenderizer (optional)
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect smoky flavor and char on the chicken.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix your marinade thoroughly without spills.
- Zip-top bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly; it’s easy to seal and store in the fridge.
- Tongs: Helpful for flipping the chicken on the grill without losing juices.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 3 lb chicken thighs (about 8 chicken thighs, boneless & skinless, fat removed)
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 2 teaspoons cardamom powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing chicken thighs on a cutting board. Cover them with plastic wrap. Use a meat tenderizer if desired; this step is optional but can help with tenderness.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl or zip-top bag:
1. Combine chicken thighs with plain yogurt, minced garlic, coriander powder, cumin powder, cardamom powder, chili powder, white vinegar, onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until all pieces are coated in marinade.
Step 3: Marinate
Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 3-5 hours. For best results, let it marinate overnight.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
1. Grill each side of the chicken thighs for about 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked through.
2. Once done, remove from grill and let rest before slicing. Enjoy your Chicken Shawarma hot!
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Serving your Chicken Shawarma can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. There are plenty of creative ways to present this flavorful dish, ensuring everyone gets a taste of its deliciousness.
Wrap It Up
- Pita Bread: Serve the grilled chicken wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic touch.
- Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to create a fresh wrap filled with chicken and toppings.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad adds crunch and complements the spices in the shawarma.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles or pickled onions provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Pair with Dipping Sauces
- Garlic Sauce: A creamy garlic sauce enhances each bite, adding extra moisture and flavor.
- Hummus: This Middle Eastern staple makes for a perfect dip alongside your chicken shawarma.
How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Perfecting your Chicken Shawarma takes time and practice, but these tips will help you achieve great results every time.
- Bold Marinade: Ensure you marinate the chicken thighs long enough—ideally overnight—to let the flavors penetrate deeply.
- High Heat Grilling: Use medium-high heat on your grill for that perfect char while keeping the meat juicy inside.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain moisture when you slice it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and ingredients enhance flavor. Avoid stale spices for better results.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Recipe
To create a complete meal around your Chicken Shawarma, consider serving it with some delightful side dishes that complement its flavors wonderfully.
- Tabbouleh: A refreshing bulgur salad mixed with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
- Falafel: Crispy chickpea balls that add texture and flavor; great served with tahini sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies seasoned with olive oil and herbs make for a healthy side.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous cooked in broth pairs well with shawarma’s bold spices.
- Baba Ganoush: A smoky eggplant dip that adds creaminess to your meal; perfect as a spread or dip.
- Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer comfort alongside the savory chicken; consider spicing them up with za’atar seasoning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Chicken Shawarma Recipe, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Many people rush this step. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 3-5 hours (or overnight) helps infuse it with flavor and tenderness.
- Using Bone-In Chicken: Some may think any chicken will do. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for optimal results, as they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium-high heat to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Not Using Fresh Spices: Relying on old spices can dull flavor. Always check your spices’ freshness and replace them if necessary for a vibrant taste.
- Overcrowding the Grill: This mistake can lead to steaming instead of grilling. Grill in batches if needed, allowing enough space between pieces for proper cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Place cooled Chicken Shawarma in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and warm the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Shawarma?
Chicken Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken that is grilled or roasted and served with various accompaniments like pita bread, sauces, and vegetables.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes! While this Chicken Shawarma Recipe calls for thighs, you can also use boneless chicken breasts. Just be mindful that they may dry out more quickly than thighs.
How spicy is this Chicken Shawarma Recipe?
The spice level can vary depending on how much chili powder you add. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Can I make Chicken Shawarma in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to a day ahead. Cook it when you’re ready to serve it for maximum flavor and freshness.
What should I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
Common sides include rice, tabbouleh, hummus, or a simple salad. These pair beautifully with the flavors of the Chicken Shawarma Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Shawarma Recipe offers a delicious blend of bold spices and tender meat that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings and sides according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this Chicken Shawarma Recipe. A perfect addition to any gathering or family dinner, this dish features marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, infused with a medley of aromatic spices. The juicy, tender chicken can be enjoyed in warm pita wraps, served over fluffy rice, or alongside fresh salads. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare—ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With its bold flavors and healthy ingredients, this Chicken Shawarma is sure to become a favorite in your home kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 2 teaspoons cardamom powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by placing thighs on a cutting board; cover with plastic wrap and tenderize if desired.
- In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix chicken thighs with yogurt, garlic, vinegar, spices, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3-5 hours (overnight for best results).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat; grill chicken for 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Let rest before slicing; serve in wraps or alongside sides of your choice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For extra flavor depth, let the chicken marinate overnight. Pair with fresh toppings like tomato-cucumber salad or pickled vegetables. Serve with dipping sauces like garlic sauce or hummus for added taste.