Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Why make this recipe
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and popular dish that brings the flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. The combination of marinated chicken and a creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
How to make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Making Chicken Shawarma is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a meal that is full of flavor and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- Salt, to taste
- Pita bread or flatbreads, to serve
- Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce), to taste
- Pickles, to taste
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In another bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and salt to taste. Mix until smooth and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble and Serve: Slice the chicken and serve it in pita bread or flatbreads. Top with fresh vegetables and a generous dollop of creamy garlic sauce. You can also add pickles for extra flavor.
How to serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Serve Chicken Shawarma hot, wrapped in pita bread or flatbreads. Add fresh vegetables for crunch and color, and don’t forget the creamy garlic sauce—it ties everything together beautifully. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and great for sharing with friends and family.
How to store Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
To store leftovers, place the sliced chicken and any remaining sauce in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken on the stove or in the microwave. You can assemble fresh sandwiches using the stored ingredients.
Tips to make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors, so plan ahead if you can.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to garnish for extra flavor.
Variation
You can switch the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Additionally, try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or red onions for extra crunch and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs for a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time as breasts might cook faster.
2. How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness comes from the optional cayenne pepper. You can leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and prepare the sauce ahead of time as well. This allows the flavors to develop even more.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine chicken thighs, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- In another bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and salt to taste. Mix until smooth and set aside.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Slice the chicken and serve it in pita bread or flatbreads. Top with fresh vegetables and a generous dollop of creamy garlic sauce. You can also add pickles for extra flavor.
Notes
