Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Grilling Chicken Shawarma is a fantastic way to bring bold Middle Eastern flavors to your table. This Chicken Shawarma Recipe highlights juicy chicken thighs marinated in a mix of aromatic spices and tangy yogurt. Perfect for gatherings or a weeknight dinner, this dish offers an explosion of taste that will delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The marinade features vibrant spices like cumin and coriander, making each bite irresistible.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward grilling instructions, you can whip up this dish with ease.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as wraps, in salads, or alongside rice for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its tender chicken and savory sauce.
• Meal Prep Perfection: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for quick cooking on busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Chicken Shawarma Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Zip bag or container
• Meat tenderizer (optional)
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor that defines shawarma.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to thoroughly combine all marinade ingredients for even flavor distribution.
• Zip bag or container: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while saving space in your fridge.

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken Shawarma Recipe – made with delicious shawarma marinade that is infused with bold Middle Eastern spices.

For the 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

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken thighs on a cutting board. Cover them with plastic wrap and tenderize using a meat tenderizer if desired.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a large bowl or zip bag, combine the chicken thighs, yogurt, minced garlic, coriander, cumin, cardamom, chili powder, vinegar, onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Marinate

1. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 3 to 5 hours; overnight is best for enhanced flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken thighs for about 8–10 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
3. Once done, slice the chicken thinly and serve hot.

This delightful Chicken Shawarma Recipe will surely become a favorite in your household! Enjoy it with your choice of sides or as part of a vibrant platter.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Chicken shawarma is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

In Pita Bread

• A warm pita pocket filled with sliced chicken shawarma, fresh vegetables, and your choice of sauce makes for a delicious handheld meal.

With Hummus

• Serve your chicken shawarma alongside creamy hummus. The combination is both flavorful and satisfying, perfect for dipping.

On a Salad

• Place sliced chicken shawarma over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a refreshing and healthy option.

With Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy rice seasoned with spices. This combination is hearty and complements the flavors of the shawarma beautifully.

As Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves or flatbreads to wrap the chicken and toppings for an easy-to-eat meal that’s great for picnics.

With Tzatziki Sauce

• Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the chicken shawarma for an added layer of flavor. This yogurt-based sauce pairs perfectly with the spices in the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Recipe

To create an outstanding chicken shawarma, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.

• Marinate Longer – For the best taste, let your chicken marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

• Use High Heat – Grilling on medium-high heat helps achieve a nice char while keeping the inside juicy. Avoid low heat which can dry out the meat.

• Choose Quality Chicken – Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs as they are more flavorful and remain moist during cooking.

• Let It Rest – After grilling, allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your preference. Adding more chili powder can give it extra heat if desired.

• Serve Fresh – Enjoy your chicken shawarma fresh off the grill for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your chicken shawarma can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Tabbouleh – This refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, mint, bulgur, and lemon juice adds brightness to your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and spices complement the savory flavors of chicken shawarma beautifully.
3. Falafel – Crispy falafel balls made from chickpeas are a tasty addition that pairs well with both flavor profiles and textures.
4. Couscous – Light and fluffy couscous flavored with herbs serves as a perfect base or side that absorbs all the delicious juices.
5. Fattoush Salad – A mix of greens, radishes, cucumbers, and crispy pita chips tossed in tangy dressing brings crunchiness to each bite.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn adds both sweetness and smokiness that balances well with savory dishes like shawarma.
7. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickles or pickled turnips add acidity that cuts through richness while enhancing overall flavor complexity.
8. Garlic Sauce – A rich garlic sauce served on the side offers a creamy texture that complements everything on your plate perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Chicken Shawarma Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Bold seasoning: Not using enough spices can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you measure and use the full range of spices recommended in the recipe.
• Poor marinating time: A short marinating period will not allow flavors to penetrate the chicken. Ideally, marinate for at least 3 hours, but overnight is best.
• Skipping the tenderizing step: If you don’t tenderize your chicken, it may end up tough. While optional, consider this step for a more succulent result.
• Incorrect grill temperature: Cooking on too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium-high heat and monitor closely.
• Failing to rest the meat: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma Recipe

• Place cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover to steam and reheat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Chicken Shawarma Recipe that may help you in your cooking journey.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Chicken Shawarma Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

What spices are essential in this Chicken Shawarma Recipe?

Key spices include coriander powder, cumin powder, cardamom powder, chili powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for authentic flavor.

How can I customize my Chicken Shawarma?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or sauces. You can also adjust spice levels according to taste preferences.

What should I serve with my Chicken Shawarma?

Consider serving it with pita bread, fresh salads, or rice to create a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides, making it suitable for any occasion. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!