Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
A delightful Middle Eastern dish featuring tender, flavorful chicken marinated in spices and served with a creamy garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Dairy-Free Possible, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce)
- Pickles
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Prepare the Pita: Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips. Warm the pita bread or flatbreads briefly on the grill or in a skillet. Spread a generous amount of garlic sauce on the bread, add the sliced chicken, and top with fresh vegetables and pickles. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for added freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Roll up the pita or flatbread tightly. If desired, wrap in parchment for easier handling and serve immediately.
Notes
For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight and use a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked through.