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Irresistible Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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Tender, marinated chicken packed with bold spices, wrapped in warm pita bread, and topped with a creamy garlic sauce. A homemade Middle Eastern classic that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6–8 pita breads or flatbreads
  • Thinly sliced cucumber
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Pickled onions or pickles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Whisk until well blended.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Make the Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, grated garlic, and salt. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  5. Slice the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips for serving.
  6. Assemble the Shawarma: Warm the pita bread and layer with chicken, creamy garlic sauce, cucumber, tomatoes, lettuce, and pickled onions if desired. Fold or roll tightly and serve immediately.

Notes

Let the chicken marinate overnight for the best flavor. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Adjust garlic and lemon levels in the sauce to suit your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Middle Eastern, Garlic Sauce, Easy Dinner, Healthy Recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/irresistible-chicken-shawarma-recipe-with-creamy-garlic-sauce/