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Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Savory Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce: A Flavorful Twist

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a quick, protein-rich dinner that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 4 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with canola or avocado oil if preferred.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin No direct substitute, but coriander can add a similar aromatic quality.
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika A mild chili powder can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Omit if unavailable, or use curry powder as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Can be replaced with parsley or skipped entirely if not liked.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon No direct substitute, but nutmeg may work in a pinch.
  • 4 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred, avoid jarred for best taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Strips Thighs are juicier, while breasts offer a lighter version.
For the Garlic Sauce
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter alternative.

Equipment

  • Bowl
  • Grill or Non-Stick Pan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth, then add the chicken strips, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil to the pan to prevent the chicken from sticking.
  3. Carefully place the marinated chicken strips onto the hot grill or pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, turning them only once, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the garlic or salt level according to your preference.
  5. After cooking, let the chicken rest briefly to retain its juices. Slice the chicken into strips and serve it warm, either inside pita bread or on a plate. Drizzle the homemade garlic sauce generously over the chicken and add fresh toppings like vegetables or pickled turnips for an authentic touch!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.

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