This Garlic-Infused Chicken Shawarma is marinated in warm Middle Eastern spices and grilled to juicy perfection. Served with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce—it’s perfect in wraps, bowls, or on its own!
PrintGarlic-Infused Chicken Shawarma
Hello, flavor seekers! If you’ve ever craved juicy, spiced chicken wrapped up in a pillowy pita with that irresistible garlic sauce—this recipe is for you. Chicken shawarma is one of those dishes that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to make. It’s bold, spiced to perfection, and that creamy garlic sauce? Oh, it takes it to a whole new level. This dish is guaranteed to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of the Middle East. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a party, it’s the kind of dish that’ll have your guests saying, “Why haven’t you made this before?” So, let’s get cooking!
- Prep Time: 15
- Marinating Time: 1 Hour
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 1 Hour + 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Chicken
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (for that juicy tenderness)
3 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground allspice
1 tsp ground cardamom (optional, but adds an exotic touch!)
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh is best!)
Salt to taste
For the Garlic Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp plain yogurt (or more for a tangier sauce)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, grated onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cardamom, black pepper, lemon juice, and salt. Mix it all together. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they’re well coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
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Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. You can also cook it on a grill pan for that delicious charred flavor!
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Prepare the Garlic Sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine the mayo, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to your liking. Add a bit more lemon juice or garlic if you want a punchier flavor.
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Assemble the Shawarma: Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a couple of minutes. Slice it into strips, then place it in pita or flatbread. Drizzle generously with the garlic sauce.
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Serve: Add your favorite toppings—sliced tomatoes, cucumber, lettuce, or even a little pickled onion for extra zing! Roll it up, take a big bite, and let the flavors take you away.
Notes
- Don’t skip marinating the chicken! The longer, the better—it’s all about letting those spices infuse into the meat.
- Make sure your skillet or grill is nice and hot so you get those crispy edges and juicy centers.
- If you’re grilling, consider placing a heavy pan or lid on top of the chicken for the first couple of minutes to ensure it cooks evenly.
Garnish Suggestions:
- Fresh parsley for a pop of color
- Sliced cucumbers or tomatoes for added crunch and freshness
- A few more drizzles of that creamy garlic sauce, because why not?
Pairing Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Fresh, tangy tabbouleh or crispy roasted potatoes
- Drink: A chilled glass of white wine or mint tea to complement the spices
Enjoy this deliciously spiced dish that will make you feel like you’re at a vibrant street food stall in the Middle East!
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 - approx. 6 oz breast
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 30
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Protein: 28