Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Welcome to our delicious recipe for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce! If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, you’re in for a treat. This recipe combines tender marinated chicken with fragrant spices, all wrapped up in a warm pita bread and topped with a creamy garlic sauce. It’s a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Beirut or Istanbul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why you’ll fall in love with this Chicken Shawarma recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Another reason to love this recipe is its amazing flavors. The combination of spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric creates a tantalizing aroma that will make your kitchen smell like a Middle Eastern spice market. And let’s not forget about the creamy garlic sauce – it adds a richness and tanginess that takes this dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and mix until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even better flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- To serve, warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave. Spread a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce on the pita bread, then add a few slices of the grilled chicken. Top with your favorite toppings, such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
- Roll up the pita bread tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Cut the shawarma wrap in half and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Success
For the most tender and flavorful chicken, marinate it for at least 1 hour or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors. Additionally, don’t skip the step of letting the chicken rest before slicing. This helps to retain the juices and ensures that the meat stays moist.
If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can also cook the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Variations and Substitutions
There are endless ways to customize this Chicken Shawarma recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
– Swap the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer white meat.
– Add some heat by including a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the marinade.
– For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Shawarma is traditionally served with a variety of side dishes and condiments. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
– Serve with a side of tabbouleh salad, hummus, or baba ganoush.
– Add a dollop of tahini sauce or tzatziki for extra creaminess.
– Enjoy with a refreshing glass of mint lemonade or a cold beer.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the marinade in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken shawarma?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken shawarma for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and satisfying meal that will transport you to the bustling streets of the Middle East. With its flavorful marinated chicken, fragrant spices, and creamy garlic sauce, it’s a recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds!
We hope you enjoy making this Chicken Shawarma recipe as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
A delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with a creamy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread
- Toppings such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions
Directions
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In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
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Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest before slicing.
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Prepare the creamy garlic sauce by combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Warm the pita bread, spread with garlic sauce, add grilled chicken slices, top with vegetables, roll tightly, and cut in half before serving.
