Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish full of flavor and spices. Itโs delicious, easy to make, and perfect for any meal. This recipe gives you tender, marinated chicken topped with fresh vegetables and tasty sauce all wrapped in soft pita or flatbread. Itโs a great choice for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or flatbread for serving
- Lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for garnish
- 1/2 cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce for drizzling
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, yogurt, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Grill or roast the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Serve the chicken in pita bread or flatbread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and drizzle with tahini sauce or garlic sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma
Serve Chicken Shawarma hot, wrapped in warm pita or flatbread. Add fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for crunch. Donโt forget to drizzle some tahini or garlic sauce on top for extra flavor. Itโs perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of fries.
How to Store Chicken Shawarma
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet or oven until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Chicken Shawarma
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add some cayenne pepper.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165ยฐF for safety.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using turkey or beef instead of chicken. You can also add your favorite toppings like pickles or onions for more texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works fine, but it may become dry if not cooked carefully. Thighs are juicier.
What can I substitute for tahini sauce?
You can use yogurt sauce or any favorite dressing as a substitute for tahini sauce.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and cook it when youโre ready to serve.
Print
Chicken Shawarma
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A flavorful Middle Eastern dish with marinated chicken served in pita or flatbread with fresh veggies and sauces.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or flatbread for serving
- Lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for garnish
- 1/2 cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, yogurt, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Grill or roast the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Serve the chicken in pita bread or flatbread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and drizzle with tahini sauce or garlic sauce.
Notes
Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor and tenderness. Adjust spices according to preference.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg









