Name: Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 510 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Thighs (Juicy and flavorful; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.); 1 cup Plain Yogurt (Adds creaminess and tenderizes the chicken.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed enhances the flavor.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can be swapped with canola oil.); 4 cloves Fresh Garlic (Adjust based on your garlic cravings.); 1 tablespoon Ground Spices (Cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cardamom, cayenne, cinnamon; adjust for spice tolerance.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Sea salt recommended for better texture.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Neutral Oil (Choose a mild oil.); 4 cloves Fresh Garlic (The more, the merrier!); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh is always best.); 4 pieces Pita Bread (Consider gluten-free options.); 2 cups Fresh Vegetables (Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, pickled turnips, parsley; mix and match.); 2 cups Optional French Fries (Crispy fries as an indulgent addition.)

The aroma of sizzling spices wafted through my kitchen as I discovered the beauty of Authentic Chicken Shawarma. This dish is more than just food; it’s a celebration of Middle Eastern cuisine crafted from simple ingredients. When marinated to perfection, chicken thighs become irresistibly tender, wrapped with a creamy garlic Toum sauce that elevates every bite. Not only is this recipe adaptable for any palate, but it’s also family-friendly, ensuring everyone at the table will be reaching for seconds. The best part? You can create an unforgettable meal in a fraction of the time it takes to hit the drive-thru. What’s your favorite way to wrap up a delicious meal?

Why Love Chicken Shawarma?

Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices creates an aromatic and savory dish that’s simply addicting.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up restaurant-quality shawarma at home.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out toppings or proteins based on your family’s preferences—lamb or a fresh salad bowl are fantastic options!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this chicken shawarma will surely impress your guests and have them asking for the recipe.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and healthy marinades, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that can replace fast food any day!
Pair it with Grilled Chicken Broccoli for a well-rounded meal.

Chicken Shawarma Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for making your very own Chicken Shawarma at home!

For the Chicken Marinade

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful; you can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Plain Yogurt – Adds creaminess and tenderizes the chicken; Greek yogurt provides a thicker texture if preferred.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; always opt for fresh squeeze to enhance the flavor.
Olive Oil – Introduces richness; can be swapped with canola oil for a neutral taste.
Fresh Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; adjust the amount to match your garlic cravings.
Ground Spices (cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cardamom, cayenne, cinnamon) – Elevate the shawarma profile; feel free to adjust the quantity for your spice tolerance.
Salt & Black Pepper – Key seasonings; choose sea salt for better texture.

For the Toum Sauce

Neutral Oil – Vital for emulsifying the sauce; select a mild oil for best results.
Fresh Garlic – Adds that creamy, garlicky kick; the more, the merrier if you’re a garlic lover!
Lemon Juice – Brings brightness to the sauce, balancing out its richness; fresh is always best.

For Assembly

Pita Bread – The perfect vessel for your shawarma; consider gluten-free options if needed.
Fresh Vegetables (romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, pickled turnips, parsley) – Provide crunch and freshness; mix and match based on what’s in your fridge.
Optional French Fries – A delightful addition for a fun twist; crispy fries add an indulgent element.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by trimming and slicing 2 pounds of chicken thighs into smaller pieces. In a large bowl, mix together plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and your ground spices. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with this marinade, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to infuse fully.

Step 2: Prepare the Toum Sauce
While the chicken marinates, make the creamy garlic Toum sauce. In a food processor, add peeled garlic cloves, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, then slowly drizzle in the neutral oil while blending. Stop to scrape down the sides as needed, creating a fluffy emulsion, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If too thick, add a little ice water to adjust the consistency, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Chop Fresh Toppings
As the marinade works its magic, prepare your fresh toppings. Shred romaine lettuce, dice juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, slice red onion thinly, chop parsley, and set aside pickled turnips. Each colorful ingredient adds a refreshing crunch to your chicken shawarma. This step should take about 10-15 minutes, ensuring you’re ready to assemble once the chicken is cooked.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add oil to prevent sticking. Take the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and cook it in batches for about 3-5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden-brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips for easier wrapping.

Step 5: Assemble the Shawarma
Warm your pita bread on a griddle or in the oven briefly until soft. Spread a generous layer of the garlic Toum sauce on the pita, then layer in the sliced, cooked chicken. Add your desired fresh toppings and fold the pita over, tucking any filling neatly inside. Repeat for the remaining pitas, and serve immediately for a delicious homemade chicken shawarma experience.

Chicken Shawarma Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore delicious twists that make this Chicken Shawarma your own!

Herb-Infused: Add minced fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to the marinade for a burst of brightness.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of chili flakes or Sriracha into the marinade for a delightful kick.
Lamb Swap: Use lamb shoulder or ribs in place of chicken for a rich, robust flavor that’s truly authentic.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled eggplant or mushrooms for a hearty, meatless version.
Creamy Alternatives: Opt for hummus instead of Toum for a smooth, nutty spread that pairs perfectly with shawarma.
Salad Bowl Style: Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with the garlic sauce, for a refreshing and low-carb twist.
Added Crunch: Toss in some crispy chickpeas or pita chips for exciting texture and even more flavor.
Fries or Rice: Substitute fries with fluffy rice or a warm grain like quinoa to soak up all those luscious sauces – try it with Garlic Chicken Fried for an extra kick!

By experimenting with these variations, you’ll surprise your family time and time again. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Chicken Shawarma

Fridge: Store leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving to keep it juicy.

Freezer: Wrap cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring no air is trapped, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Toum Sauce: Keep your creamy garlic Toum refrigerated in a sealed container for up to a week. Stir well before using, as separation may occur.

Assembly Prep: If desired, prepare fresh toppings ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the fridge for up to 2 days for convenient meal assembly.

Make Ahead Options

These Authentic Chicken Shawarma are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, and spices in a bowl. Just remember to cover it well and refrigerate to let the flavors develop. The creamy Toum sauce can also be made ahead; store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. On the day of serving, simply cook the marinated chicken as instructed, warm your pita, and assemble with fresh toppings for a delicious meal that’s just as vibrant and flavorful even when prepped in advance.

What to Serve with Authentic Chicken Shawarma?

Complete your culinary journey with vibrant sides that enhance every bite of shawarma, creating a meal to remember.

Crispy French Fries: The golden, crunchy texture of fries creates a delightful contrast to tender chicken. Perfect for scooping up extra sauce!
Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad: This bright Middle Eastern salad is packed with herbs, tomatoes, and bulgur, adding a fresh zing to your meal. Its chewy texture complements the shawarma beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables seasoned and roasted until caramelized bring sweetness and earthiness. They balance the spices in the shawarma with earthy goodness.
Hummus Platter: Serving creamy hummus alongside your shawarma invites a dip experience that enhances the flavors. Add pita chips or fresh veggies for variety.
Pickled Turnips: These tangy, crunchy bites cut through the richness of the shawarma, providing balance and brightness. They’re the perfect palate cleanser!
Mint Yogurt Sauce: A cool, creamy sauce with a hint of mint pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken. It’s a refreshing dip that will sing in harmony with your shawarma.
Pomegranate Seeds: Toss some juicy pomegranate seeds into your salad or directly into the shawarma. Their burst of sweetness offers a vibrant contrast that’s simply delectable.
Chilled Lemonade: Counter the savory spices with a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade. Its bright acidity pairs wonderfully with the shawarma’s deep flavors.

Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma

Marination Magic: Let your chicken marinate for at least 8 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deep, ensuring a juicy and tender Chicken Shawarma.
Perfect Toum Consistency: When making the Toum sauce, add the oil slowly to maintain emulsification. If it breaks, don’t panic—just blend in a few drops of cold water to rescue it!
Cooking in Batches: To achieve that beautiful sear, cook the marinated chicken in small batches. This helps retain high heat in the pan, preventing steaming.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees perfectly cooked meat every time.
Versatile Toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix and match toppings! Fresh vegetables can be adjusted for personal preference, adding your family’s favorites for a custom Chicken Shawarma experience.

Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for shawarma?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and juiciness in your Chicken Shawarma, I recommend using chicken thighs. They’re more tender and flavorful than breasts. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts can be substituted, but keep an eye on cooking time as they can dry out faster.

How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
To keep your delicious Chicken Shawarma fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, taking care not to dry them out.

Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma?
Definitely! To freeze your chicken shawarma, once it’s cooked and cooled, wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired for the best taste.

What should I do if my Toum sauce doesn’t emulsify?
Oh no! If your Toum sauce isn’t emulsifying and appears broken, don’t panic. Simply add a small amount of cold water (1-2 tablespoons) and blend again, which can help to bring it back together. If it remains thick, I often find that adding the oil more slowly during the blending process can also help achieve that creamy texture.

Is Chicken Shawarma safe for my dog to eat?
While Chicken Shawarma can be a tasty treat, you should be cautious about sharing it with your pets. The spices and garlic in it can be harmful to dogs. If you want to give your furry friend a taste, it’s best to offer plain, cooked chicken without any seasoning instead.

How can I adjust the spice levels in my shawarma marinade?
Very! Feel free to adjust the amounts of spices like cayenne and black pepper according to your palate. Start with a little less if you’re unsure, and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take away once it’s mixed in! If you’re worried about heat, try leaving out the cayenne altogether or swapping it for a milder spice.