Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce, the warm spices dancing on your tongue while the creamy sauce cools everything down. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your neighbors question if they should start knocking for a taste. This dish is not just food it’s an experience that transforms everyday moments into delicious memories.
Every time I whip up this Chicken Shawarma, I’m transported back to that bustling street market where I first tasted it. The vibrant colors, sizzling sounds, and rich scents filled my senses with joy. It’s the perfect meal for casual get-togethers or impressive dinner parties, guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me your taste buds are about to embark on a flavor journey you won’t forget
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Shawarma is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavor, this dish showcases a delightful blend of spices and creamy garlic sauce
- Its visual appeal will impress guests at any gathering and is versatile enough to serve in wraps or as part of a platter
It was hilarious watching my friends’ faces light up when they took their first bite their eyes went wide, and suddenly all chatter ceased as they savored the moment.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These add juiciness and flavor feel free to use breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the sauce avoid pre-minced options for a richer taste.
- Ground Cumin: A must-have spice for that authentic shawarma flavor toast it lightly for an extra kick.
- Ground Coriander: This brings a citrusy note to the mix don’t skip it
- Paprika: Use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference both add depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors adjust according to your taste.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish significantly bottled juice won’t cut it
- Yogurt: Plain yogurt is crucial for that creamy garlic sauce Greek yogurt can add thickness.
- Olive Oil: Adds moisture while cooking and helps the spices adhere better.
- Pita Bread or Rice: Serve your shawarma in warm pita or over fluffy rice for a complete meal.
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and works beautifully with garlic in the sauce.
- Lemon Zest: Adds a zesty brightness that enhances every bite of the creamy sauce.
- Sour Cream (optional): Can be mixed in for an even creamier texture if desired.
- Dried Dill (optional): A sprinkle of dill adds freshness and complexity to the sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until chicken is coated evenly.
Let it Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight). This step allows flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when juices run clear.
Prepare Garlic Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and optional dill until smooth. Taste test this will be your new obsession
Slice & Serve: Once cooked chicken has rested for 5 minutes (patience pays off), slice it thinly against the grain. Serve wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh veggies don’t forget that creamy garlic sauce
Enjoying homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce guarantees you’ll impress family and friends while feeling like a culinary superstar
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is not just a meal it’s an experience
- The spices create an aroma that fills your kitchen, while the creamy sauce adds a luscious touch to every bite
- Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, then grill it on high heat for that perfect char. While it cooks, whip up your creamy garlic sauce for a seamless meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for beef or lamb if you prefer. Add some fresh veggies like cucumber or tomato for crunch and color, and experiment with spices to find your favorite twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least four hours, preferably overnight
- Use high-quality spices to enhance the dish’s authenticity
- Always slice against the grain for tender pieces that melt in your mouth
Reflecting on my first attempt at making Chicken Shawarma, I remember how my friends devoured it Their laughter and compliments turned my nervous cooking into a cherished memory.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely Boneless thighs add more flavor and tenderness to your Chicken Shawarma.
How do I make the creamy garlic sauce?
Combine yogurt, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a delicious creamy garlic sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers from this recipe?
Yes Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months without losing flavor.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish that transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Tender, marinated chicken thighs are grilled to perfection and served with a luscious garlic sauce that perfectly balances the warm spices. Ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Optional: sour cream and dried dill for sauce
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, mix chicken thighs with olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and juices run clear. Allow resting for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the creamy garlic sauce: Whisk together yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and optional dill in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Serve: Slice the chicken thinly against the grain and serve in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and creamy garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
