Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Grilled Chicken Shawarma Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. This chicken shawarma recipe is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep for the week. Infused with aromatic spices and a creamy marinade, it offers a unique taste experience that’s both satisfying and versatile. Enjoy it in wraps, salads, or served with rice for a delicious meal any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of yogurt and spices creates a rich flavor that permeates the chicken.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily marinate the chicken and let it soak up all those delicious flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it in pita bread, on salads, or alongside rice; this recipe adapts to your meal preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week without losing any flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering with its vibrant spices and aroma.

Tools and Preparation

For this chicken shawarma recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl or zip bag
• Meat tenderizer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor essential for authentic shawarma.
• Mixing bowl or zip bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly, ensuring every piece is coated in flavor.
• Meat tenderizer: Helps break down fibers in chicken thighs, making them more tender (optional but beneficial).

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Ingredients

Grilled Chicken Shawarma Recipe – made with delicious shawarma marinade that is infused with bold Middle Eastern spices.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 3 lb chicken thighs (about 8 chicken thighs, boneless & skinless, fat removed)
• 3/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 2 teaspoons cardamom powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken thighs on a cutting board.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and tenderize them using a meat tenderizer if desired.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl or zip bag, combine chicken thighs with yogurt, minced garlic, coriander, cumin, cardamom, chili powder, vinegar, onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well to ensure all ingredients coat the chicken evenly.
3. Refrigerate for 3-5 hours; overnight is best for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium/high heat.
2. Grill chicken thighs for about 8-10 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
3. Once cooked, slice the meat into strips and enjoy your delicious chicken shawarma!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Serving chicken shawarma can be a delightful experience, as it pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Wraps

• Use pita or flatbreads to create wraps filled with sliced chicken shawarma, fresh veggies, and sauces for a portable meal.

Salad Bowls

• Serve the sliced chicken over a bed of mixed greens, topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt dressing for a refreshing salad.

Rice Dishes

• Pair your chicken shawarma with fragrant rice, such as basmati or jasmine, seasoned with herbs and spices for a hearty meal.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer garlic sauce or tahini as dipping options. These sauces add flavor and creaminess to the grilled chicken.

Pickled Vegetables

• Serve pickled turnips or cucumbers on the side. Their tangy flavor complements the spices in the chicken beautifully.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma Recipe

To master the art of making chicken shawarma, consider these essential tips that can enhance your dish significantly.

• Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 3 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor infusion.
• Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Resting Period: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and improves texture.
• Use Fresh Spices: Always opt for fresh spices when possible. They provide stronger flavors compared to older jars.
• Don’t Crowd the Grill: Grill in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of grilling.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Pairing your chicken shawarma with complementary side dishes can enhance its flavors and create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Tabbouleh
   A refreshing parsley salad with bulgur, tomatoes, mint, and lemon juice that adds brightness to the dish.

2. Hummus
   A creamy dip made from chickpeas and tahini that provides a rich texture and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender offer a healthy side.

4. Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices serves as a great base that absorbs delicious flavors from the shawarma.

5. Fattoush Salad
   A vibrant salad made with mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and crispy pita chips dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

6. Fragrant Rice Pilaf
   Aromatic rice cooked with broth and spices creates a flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken shawarma.

7. Baba Ganoush
   A smoky eggplant dip that brings depth of flavor and creaminess to your plate alongside the savory chicken.

8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices provide unique flavors that complement the main dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chicken Shawarma Recipe, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold Marinade Mistake: Not allowing enough marinating time can lead to less flavorful chicken. Aim for at least 3-5 hours, or preferably overnight, for best results.

• Bold Grilling Temperature Error: Grilling on too low heat means the chicken may cook unevenly. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high for a nice sear and even cooking.

• Bold Skipping the Tenderizing Step: While optional, tenderizing the chicken thighs helps achieve a juicier texture. Even a slight tenderization can enhance the overall dish.

• Bold Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can result in dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

• Bold Over-complicating Serving Options: Shawarma is versatile; don’t feel pressured to serve it in a specific way. Try it in wraps, salads, or over rice for delicious variety.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma Recipe

• Freeze cooked Chicken Shawarma in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Chicken Shawarma Recipe that may help you get the most out of your cooking experience.

Can I use different meats in the Chicken Shawarma Recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with beef, turkey, or lamb as alternatives to chicken while maintaining rich flavors.

What should I serve with Chicken Shawarma?

Consider serving it with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or a side salad. You could also add sauces like tahini or garlic sauce for extra flavor.

How do I ensure my Chicken Shawarma is juicy?

Proper marinating is key! Allow enough time for the spices and yogurt mixture to penetrate the meat before grilling.

Is this Chicken Shawarma Recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of chili powder used. Feel free to reduce it if you prefer milder flavors!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma Recipe is not only delightful but also versatile and customizable. Whether you enjoy it wrapped in pita or served over rice, it’s sure to impress! Experiment with different sides and toppings to make it your own.