Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my personal favorite—they stay juicier than breasts. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts instead. You could also try this with diced pork or tofu for a different twist!

Spices: This recipe includes a great mix of spices for flavor. If you don’t have allspice, you can replace it with extra cumin or a mix of nutmeg and cloves. Feel free to adjust the cayenne if you like things milder or spicier!

Greek Yogurt: For the creamy garlic sauce, Greek yogurt adds thickness and tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based yogurt instead. It will change the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be tasty!

How Do I Marinate the Chicken Properly?

Marinating is key to making your chicken flavorful and tender. It’s best to let it sit for at least one hour, but overnight is even better! The longer you marinate, the better the flavors meld. Just mix all the marinade ingredients well and coat the chicken evenly.

• Place the chicken in a large bowl or a resealable bag with the marinade.
• Seal and refrigerate. Make sure to flip the bag now and then to coat the chicken evenly.

Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Shawarma:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional:

• Pita bread or flatbreads for serving
• Sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

How Much Time Do You Need?

This Easy Chicken Shawarma recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. Don’t forget about the marinating time; allow at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor. So, set aside around 1 hour and 35 minutes total for a delicious homemade meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper (if you want a bit of heat), salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken pieces and make sure they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better!

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked, golden brown, and deliciously fragrant. Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

3. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

While the chicken is resting, let’s prepare the creamy garlic sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste and add more seasoning if you like!

4. Assemble the Shawarma:

Now it’s time to put everything together! Warm your pita bread or flatbreads lightly. Place a generous amount of sliced chicken onto each piece of bread. If you want a fresh crunch, add some sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion on top. Finally, drizzle that creamy garlic sauce all over!

5. Garnish and Serve:

Top everything off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for that added burst of flavor. Serve right away and enjoy your homemade easy chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce! It’s a tasty treat for everyone!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner option. Just note that thighs tend to be juicier and may enhance the dish’s flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option—just shred it and add it to the sauce and veggies.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas. For tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, cut it into cubes, and follow the same marinating and cooking steps. This will give you a satisfying plant-based shawarma option!

Can I Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It may thicken a bit, so if needed, stir in a splash of water or more olive oil before serving to achieve the desired consistency.

What Are Some Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. The sauce can be enjoyed cold directly from the fridge or slightly warmed if you prefer!