As I sliced into the tender chicken, the warm spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the streets of the Middle East. This Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce brings a world of flavors right to your table, and it’s surprisingly quick to whip up—perfect for those bustling weeknights. In just 90 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal that’s not only easy to make but also freezes beautifully for later enjoyment. The aromatic blend of spices paired with a creamy garlic sauce elevates your dinner game without the need for takeout. Ready to learn how to create this delicious dish that will impress both family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Chicken Shawarma a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite showcases a medley of spices that create a rich, aromatic experience, reminiscent of authentic Middle Eastern street food.
Quick & Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing delicious home-cooked goodness to your table in just 90 minutes.
Versatile Options: Whether using chicken thighs or breasts, you can adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Want a vegetarian twist? Try swapping in grilled vegetables or chickpeas!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store for a quick reheat meal throughout the week—ideal for busy schedules.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it in pita or on a plate with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce, and watch everyone come back for seconds, just like with my Honey Dijon Chicken.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Olive Oil – Moisture and flavor; avocado oil is a great alternative for a lighter option.
- Cumin – Adds earthy warmth; omit for a different flavor profile if necessary.
- Paprika – Provides depth and color; use smoked paprika for an extra layer of smokiness.
- Turmeric – Adds color and health benefits; can be omitted if unavailable.
- Coriander – Brightness to the spice mix; ground parsley works as a substitute if needed.
- Cinnamon – Contributes warmth and sweetness; eliminate for a less aromatic flavor.
- Minced Garlic – Essential for marinade and garlic sauce; fresh or powdered garlic is suitable, but be mindful of the quantity.
- Lemon Juice – Brightness and acidity; fresh lemon is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
- Salt & Pepper – Basic seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
For the Garlic Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Creamy base for the sauce; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
- Minced Garlic – Intensifies flavor; adjust according to your preference for garlic strength.
- Lemon Juice – Adds zing and freshness; using fresh lemon juice elevates the taste.
This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience waiting to transport your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until blended. Add chicken strips to the marinade, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator—if you have time, marinating overnight will greatly enhance the flavors in your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce.
Step 2: Preheat the Cooking Surface
While the chicken is marinating, heat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle a little olive oil on the cooking surface to prevent sticking. Allow the pan or grill to reach a sizzling temperature, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This ensures that your Chicken Shawarma achieves that perfect golden-brown crust when it cooks.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken strips onto the hot grill or pan, cooking for approximately 5–7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on it to avoid drying out, as overcooked chicken can lose its juiciness, which is key for delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for flavor strength. This garlic sauce will complement your Chicken Shawarma beautifully, adding a luscious richness that elevates the dish.
Step 5: Serve Your Chicken Shawarma
Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Serve your Chicken Shawarma in warm pita bread or on a plate. Top generously with the creamy garlic sauce, handing out fresh vegetables and pickles for added crunch and color. Enjoy a lovely homemade meal that reminds you of the vibrant flavors found in traditional Middle Eastern cuisine!
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma
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Juicy Chicken: Marinate whole pieces: Whole chicken cuts tend to stay juicier than strips, which can dry out quickly during cooking.
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Temperature Watch: Prevent dryness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking for the best Chicken Shawarma.
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Garlic Sauce Prep: Make ahead: You can prepare the garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance for extra convenience and flavor boost.
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Cooking Surface: Preheat properly: Ensure your grill or pan is hot enough before adding chicken; this creates a delicious golden-brown crust while locking in moisture.
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Flavor Boost: Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak spice quantities based on your taste preferences; this Chicken Shawarma recipe is adaptable to your palate!
What to Serve with Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Bring your dinner table to life by creating a vibrant and flavorful meal that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.
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Creamy Hummus: Smooth and rich, hummus provides a perfect dip for pita, enhancing the savory notes of the shawarma.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, refreshing yogurt-based dip adds a tangy contrast that balances the spices in the chicken beautifully.
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Tabbouleh Salad: Packed with fresh herbs and bulgur wheat, this salad brightens your plate while offering a delightful texture and freshness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Mixed seasonal veggies caramelized to perfection, adding sweetness and a hearty dimension to your meal.
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Pita Chips: Crunchy and satisfying, pita chips serve as a tasty vessel for dipping sauces and enhance the meal’s playful side.
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Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, dressed with lemon and olive oil, add a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the shawarma.
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Mint Lemonade: A cool drink that not only hydrates but also refreshes your palate after each spicy bite, making it a wonderful accompaniment.
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Baklava: This sweet, flaky dessert drizzled with honey offers a delightful finish to your meal, leaving everyone with a smile on their face.
Serve these alongside your Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce for a meal that perfectly balances flavors and textures, turning any night into a special occasion.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Chicken Shawarma your own with these adaptable ideas!
- Breast or Thighs: Choose chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for an extra juicy bite—both cook deliciously!
- Whole Wheat Pita: Opt for whole wheat pita instead of regular for a healthier twist, adding fiber and a nutty flavor.
- Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute chicken with marinated grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add heat by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the spice mix for those who crave a fiery touch.
- Herbal Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the marinade or as a garnish to brighten every flavorful bite.
- Smoky Flavor: Replace regular paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper, more complex flavor that transports your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
- Creamy Yogurt Sauce: Switch mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in your garlic sauce for a tangy and protein-packed alternative that’s just as creamy.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey over the cooked chicken for a delightful sweet contrast that beautifully enhances the spices and garlic sauce.
For more delectable flavor explorations, you might want to try pairing your shawarma with fresh herbs and pickled vegetables. These topping boosts, alongside dishes like my Balsamic Fig Chicken or Greek Chicken Meatballs, can make any dinner feel exciting and new!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and infuse, ensuring a delicious result. For added convenience, the creamy garlic sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This way, you’ll enjoy the same tender and juicy chicken, ready to delight your family with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze cooked Chicken Shawarma for up to 3 months. Place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat until warmed through and juicy.
Garlic Sauce Storage: Store garlic sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s covered tightly to retain flavor.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for shawarma?
Absolutely! You can use either chicken thighs or breasts for your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. Thighs tend to be slightly juicier due to their higher fat content, while breasts are leaner. Both cut options are tasty and can be marinated and cooked just as effectively, so choose what you and your family enjoy the most!
How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
After cooking, place your leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 days if you ensure it has cooled completely before sealing. For longer storage, consider wrapping or placing it in a freezer-safe bag—this will retain the flavors for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze the Chicken Shawarma?
Definitely! To freeze your Chicken Shawarma, wait for it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag, making sure you remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan over medium heat for perfect juiciness.
What if my chicken turns out dry?
No worries! To avoid dry chicken, it’s crucial to monitor the cooking time closely. Chicken breasts should be checked around 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can really help you avoid overcooking. Additionally, consider marinating whole cuts instead of sliced pieces to retain more moisture during cooking.
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of the garlic sauce ingredients; you can substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Also, check for any allergies regarding the spices, especially cumin or garlic. For a vegetarian variant, I’ve often swapped in grilled vegetables or chickpeas, which are fantastic alternatives to chicken.
How can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?
Great question! You can prepare the garlic sauce several days in advance. Just mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl until well-blended. Seal it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It can last for up to 3 days, making your meal prep super convenient!
Savor Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and add chicken strips to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- While the chicken is marinating, heat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and allow it to reach a sizzling temperature.
- Place marinated chicken strips onto the hot grill or pan, cooking for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust garlic based on preference.
- Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Serve in warm pita or on a plate topped with the creamy garlic sauce.
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