Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Ingredients Summary:
- Chicken thighs: 2 lbs (boneless, skinless)
- Olive oil: 1/4 cup
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Yogurt: 1/4 cup (optional for extra tenderness)
- Ground cumin: 2 teaspoons
- Ground paprika: 2 teaspoons
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Ground turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground cayenne: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
For Serving:
- Pita bread
- Tahini sauce or garlic sauce
- Cucumber, tomato, lettuce (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions Overview:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, yogurt (if using), and spices. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through. Alternatively, grill the chicken over medium heat.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooked, slice the chicken thinly. Serve in warm pita bread, topped with fresh vegetables, pickles, and your choice of tahini or garlic sauce.
For more details and tips, you can visit these sources The Mediterranean Dish – Chicken Shawarma.
Chicken Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern street food, known for its tender, flavorful chicken marinated in a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika. This shawarma recipe guides you through creating the perfect marinade with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, ensuring that the chicken is juicy and flavorful after grilling or roasting. Once cooked, the chicken is thinly sliced and served in warm pita bread with fresh veggies, tahini, or garlic sauce. Whether you’re making a traditional shawarma wrap or serving it over rice, this dish is sure to bring the authentic taste of the Middle East to your table.