Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Temp User
Published 16 May' 26

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Chicken Shawarma is a mouthwatering Middle Eastern dish known for its bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken. Marinated with a blend of aromatic spices, garlic, lemon, and yogurt, the chicken is cooked on a rotisserie (though you can also cook it in a pan or grill). The result is a beautifully seasoned meat that can be enjoyed in a wrap, pita, or over rice. This dish has gained international popularity due to its irresistible taste, making it a perfect meal for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack.

Chicken Shawarma

People Why Love Chicken Shawarma Recipe

  • Flavor-packed: The marinated chicken is seasoned with a perfect combination of spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, giving it a rich flavor.
  • Versatile: You can enjoy it in a pita, wrap, or over rice with your favorite toppings such as garlic sauce, hummus, and tabbouleh.
  • Quick and easy: Making chicken shawarma at home is straightforward, and you don’t need any special equipment like a rotisserie. A regular pan or grill works just fine.
  • Healthy option: The chicken is lean and full of protein, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a filling yet healthy meal.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste.

Health Benefits

  • Protein-rich: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
  • Packed with spices: The spices used in shawarma like turmeric and cumin are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion.
  • Low-carb: When served without the pita, chicken shawarma can be a low-carb option, especially when paired with vegetables or a salad.

    Cooking Tips and Tricks

    • Marinate the chicken longer: For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight in the fridge. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.
    • Grill for more flavor: Grilling the chicken on a barbecue adds a smoky touch that elevates the flavor profile.
    • Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re cooking multiple pieces of chicken, cook them in batches to ensure they sear evenly and don’t steam.
    • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers bring crunch and freshness that balance the richness of the chicken.
    • Serve immediately: Shawarma is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately after assembly for the best taste.
    Recipe
    5 (0 Reviews)

    Chicken Shawarma Recipe​

    Prep Time 15 mins
    Cook Time 20 mins
    Author Temp User

    Chicken Shawarma is a mouthwatering Middle Eastern dish known for its bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken. Marinated with a blend of aromatic spices, garlic, lemon, and yogurt, the chicken is cooked on a rotisserie (though you can also cook it in a pan or grill).

    Equipment

    • Skillet or grill pan
    • Large mixing bowl
    • Tongs or spatula
    • Knife and cutting board
    • Serving dish or wrap
    • Grill (optional for extra char)

    Ingredients

    Servings 4
    • 2 lbs chicken breast (or thighs for juicier meat)
    • 0.5 cup plain yogurt
    • 3 tbsp olive oil
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 tbsp ground cumin
    • 1 tbsp paprika
    • 1 tsp ground turmeric
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Pita bread or wraps (for serving)
    • Fresh vegetables (like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers)
    • Garlic sauce or tahini (optional)

    Instructions

    1
    Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed. Add the chicken to the bowl, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
    2
    Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. You can also use a grill for an extra smoky flavor.
    3
    Assemble: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Lay a pita or wrap on a plate, and top with chicken, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of garlic sauce or tahini.
    4
    Serve: Roll the shawarma into a wrap or serve it over rice for a complete meal.

    Notes:

    You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier shawarma.
    Feel free to add your favorite toppings like pickles, onions, or a fresh salad.
    If you don't have a grill pan, a regular skillet works perfectly fine.
    For extra crunch, add some crispy fries inside the wrap.

    Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

    350

    Calories (kcal)

    18

    Fat (g)

    0

    Carbs (g)

    30

    Protein (g)

    Carbohydrates 25g
    Cholesterol 70mg
    Sodium 600mg
    Potassium 400mg
    Fiber 4g
    Sugar 4g
    Vitamin A (IU) 500 IU
    Vitamin C (mg) 10mg
    Calcium 60mg
    Iron 2mg

    * Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.

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    Hi, I'm Nagi!

    Hi, I'm Nagi!

    I believe you can make great food with everyday ingredients even if you’re short on time and cost conscious. You just need to cook clever and get creative!

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