Imagine biting into a perfectly spiced, juicy chicken shawarma that transports you straight to the bustling street markets of the Middle East. This isn't just another chicken recipe - it's a culinary adventure that combines bold spices, tender meat, and a creamy garlic white sauce that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this chicken shawarma recipe promises restaurant-quality results that will impress your family and friends.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 pita breads
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by trimming any excess fat from the thighs and patting them dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shawarma spice mix, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to create a marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- While chicken marinates, prepare the garlic white sauce by whisking together yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add remaining olive oil.
- Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and develops a nice golden-brown exterior.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then slice into thin strips.
- Warm pita breads in a dry skillet or briefly in the oven.
- Assemble by spreading garlic white sauce inside each pita, adding sliced chicken, and optional fresh vegetables like chopped tomatoes or cucumbers.
- Fold or roll the pita, slice in half, and serve immediately with extra garlic sauce on the side.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Don't rush the marinating process. Letting the chicken sit in the shawarma spice mix for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Get That Golden Crust: Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture.
- Sauce Preparation: Make the garlic white sauce ahead of time and refrigerate to let the flavors meld together.
- Slice Thin for Best Texture: When serving, slice the chicken into thin strips to ensure each bite is tender and easy to eat.
- Customize Your Shawarma: Feel free to add fresh vegetables like chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickled turnips for extra crunch and flavor. Pro tip: Warm your pita bread just before serving to enhance its softness and make your shawarma experience even more authentic!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
