Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

why make this recipe

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings Middle Eastern flavors straight to your kitchen. It’s popular for a reason: the tender marinated chicken, the creamy garlic sauce, and the fresh veggies come together to create a meal that is satisfying and delicious. This recipe is great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be tailored to fit your taste.

how to make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Ingredients :

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Pita bread or flatbreads for serving
• Vegetables for garnish (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers)

Directions :

1. In a bowl, mix garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, coating well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and no longer pink inside.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the garlic sauce by combining yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl; mix until smooth.
6. Slice the cooked chicken and serve in pita bread or flatbreads, drizzled with garlic sauce and garnished with fresh vegetables.

how to serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

To enjoy Chicken Shawarma, fill warm pita bread or flatbreads with the sliced chicken. Drizzle a generous amount of garlic sauce on top and add fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for extra crunch. You can wrap it up and eat it like a sandwich or serve it open-faced for a delightful meal.

how to store Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Leftover Chicken Shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors fresh, store the garlic sauce separately. When reheating, you can warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave. Avoid reheating the garlic sauce to maintain its creamy texture.

tips to make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
• Experiment with your favorite spices to customize the marinade.
• Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor, or use a skillet for convenience.
• Add more vegetables like pickles or olives for an exciting twist.

variation

You can use different proteins such as beef or lamb for a different taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using grilled vegetables or falafel instead of chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well too, but thighs remain juicier.

Is there a gluten-free option for the bread?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pita or flatbreads as a substitute.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just make sure it is in a sealed bag or container.