Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe: Delicious & Authentic!

I still remember the first time I tasted a truly authentic chicken shawarma recipe. It wasn’t in a restaurant, but at a small family gathering. The flavors were so vibrant, so layered, it was unlike anything I had ever tried. The aromas alone drew everyone closer, and the first bite sealed the deal. I knew I had to learn how to recreate that magic in my own kitchen.

My journey to perfecting this chicken shawarma recipe wasn’t without its bumps. Early attempts were… well, let’s just say they lacked that special something. I realized that the key wasn’t just about following a recipe; it was about understanding the spices, how they interact, and how to coax the best flavors out of them. Each spice tells a story, and together they create a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

Over time, through countless adjustments and taste tests with my family, I finally landed on a chicken shawarma recipe that rivals the original. It’s become a family favorite, a dish that brings us together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. I love watching their faces light up with each bite, knowing that I’ve created something truly special.

This chicken shawarma recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a journey to the heart of Middle Eastern flavors. It’s a dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers a depth of flavor that will impress even the most discerning palates. If you’re a fellow home cook looking to create genuine, flavorful meals for your family, this chicken shawarma recipe is for you. Let’s get started!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: I prefer thighs because they stay moist and tender, but chicken breasts work too.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: The foundation for our flavorful marinade.
• 1/4 cup lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken for the chicken shawarma recipe.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced is key for that pungent garlic flavor. You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this chicken shawarma recipe at your local farmers market.
• 2 tbsp ground cumin: This earthy spice is a cornerstone of shawarma flavor. This chicken shawarma recipe proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices.
• 2 tbsp paprika: Adds color and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 tbsp turmeric: For its vibrant color and subtle peppery flavor. My family loves when I add this extra touch to our chicken shawarma recipe – the color pops!
• 1 tbsp ground coriander: A citrusy, warm spice that complements the other flavors.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: For a touch of heat (adjust to your preference). Trust me, this chicken shawarma recipe ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for the best flavor. Here’s an chicken shawarma recipe flavor secret that transformed our family dinners…freshly ground pepper.
• Pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and lettuce: For serving.

Let’s Create This Together!

1. Prepare the Shawarma Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This shawarma marinade is the heart and soul of our chicken shawarma recipe.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Make sure every piece is well covered, ensuring maximum flavor penetration. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your chicken shawarma recipe will be!
3. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
4. Arrange the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Discard any remaining marinade. In my kitchen, this flavorful chicken shawarma recipe typically takes about 25-30 minutes to cook, depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs.
5. Bake the Chicken: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
6. Broil for Crispy Edges (Optional): For extra crispy edges, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Don’t be surprised if your chicken shawarma recipe develops a delicious caramelized crust.
7. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken shawarma recipe.
8. Slice the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken into thin strips against the grain. Your chicken shawarma recipe should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
9. Assemble Your Shawarma: Warm the pita bread. Spread hummus and tahini sauce on the pita. Add the sliced chicken, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and lettuce. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my chicken shawarma recipe – learn from my experience! Don’t overfill the pita for easy wrapping.
10. Wrap and Enjoy!: Wrap the pita tightly and serve immediately. While your chicken shawarma recipe is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!

How We Love to Enjoy This!

My family absolutely loves when I serve this chicken shawarma recipe with a side of homemade hummus and a dollop of creamy tahini sauce. The combination of the spiced chicken, the earthy hummus, and the tangy tahini is simply irresistible. We also enjoy adding a variety of fresh toppings, such as chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and crisp lettuce. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic chicken shawarma recipe appears with all the fixings!

This chicken shawarma recipe is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying and flavorful. It’s also a great option for a casual get-together with friends or a fun family picnic. I sometimes make a big batch of the chicken and let everyone assemble their own shawarmas, creating a customizable and interactive dining experience.

For a complete meal, I often serve this chicken shawarma recipe with a side of tabouli or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. The fresh, vibrant flavors of these salads complement the richness of the shawarma perfectly. Chicken Shawarma (Middle Eastern) – RecipeTin Eats offers more serving suggestions.

Another way we love to enjoy this chicken shawarma recipe is by making it into a salad. I simply toss the sliced chicken with mixed greens, chopped vegetables, and a light lemon vinaigrette. It’s a healthy and delicious way to enjoy the same great flavors in a lighter dish. If your family loves these authentic flavors, they’ll appreciate this twist on the classic chicken shawarma wrap!

Sometimes, I’ll even use leftover chicken shawarma to make a quick and easy chicken shawarma bowl. I layer rice, hummus, chicken, and veggies in a bowl and drizzle with tahini sauce. It’s a perfect way to use up leftovers and create a satisfying lunch or dinner. I also like to serve this with my chicken cordon bleu soup, a recipe my family loves.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Does this chicken shawarma recipe really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! The combination of flavorful chicken, hearty pita bread, and various toppings makes it a filling and satisfying meal. Plus, you can customize it to your liking with extra toppings or a side dish.

What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their chicken shawarma recipe?
No problem! Simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade or omit it altogether. You can also adjust the other spices to suit your family’s taste preferences.

How can I prepare this chicken shawarma recipe ahead for busy weeks?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. This will actually enhance the flavor! You can also chop the vegetables and make the hummus and tahini sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this chicken shawarma recipe?
Yes, you can. However, chicken breasts tend to be drier than chicken thighs, so be sure to cook them carefully to avoid overcooking. Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe – Palestine In A Dish confirms this.

What’s the best way to warm pita bread for this chicken shawarma recipe?
You can warm pita bread in a dry skillet over medium heat, in the oven wrapped in foil, or even in the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat it, or it will become hard and brittle. I also like to serve this with my chicken pot pie soup, a guaranteed family pleaser.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it for this chicken shawarma recipe?
Yes, grilling the chicken is a great option, especially during the summer months. Just be sure to preheat your grill and cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s cooked through.

What are some good alternatives to pita bread for this chicken shawarma recipe?
If you don’t have pita bread on hand, you can use naan bread, wraps, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. This chicken shawarma recipe works well with many variations.

Is it okay if I don’t have all the spices for this chicken shawarma recipe?
While the combination of spices is what gives shawarma its unique flavor, you can certainly adjust the recipe to suit what you have on hand. Focus on the cumin, paprika, and garlic, as these are the most essential spices. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore my chicken alfredo soup.

Final Kitchen Wisdom:

This chicken shawarma recipe supports my family’s authentic meal goals by providing a delicious, nutritious, and customizable meal that everyone enjoys. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy, and it’s a great way to introduce my children to new flavors and cuisines.

My chicken shawarma recipe Flavor Secrets:

• Marinate, marinate, marinate: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices: Adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste preferences.
• Fresh is best: Use fresh garlic, lemon juice, and herbs whenever possible for the most vibrant flavors. 20-Minute Authentic Arabic Chicken Shawarma – Hungry Paprikas can also show you this.

Here are a few family-tested chicken shawarma recipe variations:

• Spicy Shawarma: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Mediterranean Shawarma: Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil to the finished shawarma.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: Replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or falafel.

My son, loves the spicy shawarma, while my daughter prefers the milder version with extra hummus. I encourage you to make this chicken shawarma recipe your own signature version, experimenting with different spices, toppings, and variations to create a dish that your family will love.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create many delicious and memorable meals for your family. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting, having fun, and sharing the love through food. Enjoy the process of creating this satisfying chicken shawarma recipe.

 
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chicken shawarma recipe

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This homemade Chicken Shawarma recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken marinated in Middle Eastern spices, perfect for wraps, salads, or bowls. Enjoy the taste of your favorite shawarma spot, made easily at home!

• Author: Savannah Rose
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp turmeric
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp cardamom
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Pita bread, for serving
• Toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, tahini sauce, tzatziki sauce

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for best flavor.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
5. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through and browned, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
7. Serve the chicken shawarma in pita bread with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, tahini sauce, and tzatziki sauce.

Notes

For extra flavor, grill the chicken shawarma after baking for a few minutes to get a slightly charred exterior. You can also use chicken breast, but thighs will yield a more tender and juicy result.