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Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Name: Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 4-6 pita breads; Sliced tomatoes and cucumbers; Shredded lettuce; Thinly sliced red onion

Freshly cooked chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce ready to serve

Bring the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food straight to your kitchen with this authentic chicken shawarma recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish combines tender, marinated chicken with an irresistible homemade garlic sauce that will make you feel like you’re dining at your favorite Mediterranean restaurant.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma Marinade:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

For Serving:

4-6 pita breads
Sliced tomatoes and cucumbers
Shredded lettuce
Thinly sliced red onion

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices until well combined. This aromatic blend of cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne will give your chicken that authentic Middle Eastern flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. Combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and fresh dill in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain. Warm your pita breads and assemble your shawarma wraps with sliced chicken, fresh vegetables, and a generous drizzle of the homemade garlic sauce.

Expert Tips

Marinate longer: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate for 8-24 hours
Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier than breast meat and have better flavor absorption
Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the chicken rest ensures the juices redistribute
Toast the pita: Lightly toast your pita bread for better texture
Meal prep friendly: This recipe keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. If using breast, reduce cooking time and monitor closely to prevent dryness.

How long does the garlic sauce keep?

The yogurt garlic sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Serve with gluten-free pita or over a salad for a gluten-free option.

What can I serve with chicken shawarma?

Traditional sides include tabbouleh, hummus, fattoush salad, or rice pilaf.

Enjoy this delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal that brings the authentic taste of street food right to your dinner table!