Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, look no further than Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home because it’s not just delicious; it’s also easy to make and great for sharing. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends and family, this shawarma will impress everyone at the table.

The warm spices combined with tender chicken thighs create a savory experience that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s customizable! You can serve it up in pita bread with fresh veggies and your choice of toppings, making it a fun meal for everyone to enjoy together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a bit of marinating time, you can whip this dish together without stress.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love creating their own shawarma wraps with all the colorful toppings.
• Make-ahead convenience: Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor, making dinner prep a breeze.
• Deliciously versatile: The flavors of Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma pair perfectly with so many sides and toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Spice Marinade:

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade Liquid:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Pita bread
• Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes)
• Optional toppings (such as feta cheese or pickled onions)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Swap the protein: You can use boneless chicken breasts or even marinated tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the spices: Try adding smoked paprika or sumac for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños if you like things hot!
• Try different toppings: Experiment with hummus, tahini sauce, or even grilled veggies to suit your taste.

How to Make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all those warm spices. This marinade is crucial because it infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it juicy during cooking. It’s like giving your chicken a spa day before it hits the grill!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to your marinade. Make sure they are well coated—this is where all that goodness seeps into the meat! Cover your bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight if you have time. The longer they marinate, the better they taste!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have those lovely char marks. Letting them rest afterwards allows juices to redistribute so every bite is succulent.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After resting for about 5 minutes, slice the chicken thinly. Now comes the fun part! Stuff your pita bread with those flavorful slices of chicken along with fresh veggies and parsley. Don’t forget your favorite toppings to make each wrap uniquely yours!

Enjoy sharing this delightful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with loved ones—it’s bound to become a cherished meal in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Making the perfect chicken shawarma is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can enhance the flavor profile of your shawarma significantly. The warmth and depth from fresh spices will elevate your dish and make it truly aromatic.

• Marinate longer for deeper flavor: While 2 hours is the minimum for marinating, letting the chicken soak overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.

• Preheat your cooking surface: Whether you’re using a grill or skillet, preheating ensures that you achieve that wonderful char on the chicken. This not only adds flavor but also helps seal in the juices.

• Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, leading to moist and tender pieces in each bite.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Adding ingredients like tahini sauce or spicy harissa can bring new layers of flavor to your shawarma experience.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is just as enjoyable as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or mint adds a vibrant touch and brightens up the dish.
• Sliced lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating can enhance flavors and add a refreshing zest.
• Sumac sprinkle: A dash of sumac provides a tangy flavor contrast that complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and lemon juice offers a light complement to the rich flavors of shawarma.

• Hummus: Creamy and smooth, hummus serves as a fantastic dip for pita bread and adds extra protein and flavor to your meal.

• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil can bring additional color and nutrients to your table.

• Cucumber yogurt salad: Cool and creamy, this salad helps balance spiciness while providing a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with warm shawarma.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with family or friends. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch, store it, and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3–4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cool to room temperature.
• Cut into slices and place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave at medium power until hot.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs; however, be aware that they may dry out more quickly. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain juicy.

How do I serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Serve your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes. Add toppings like feta cheese or pickled onions for extra flavor!

What can I use instead of yogurt in the marinade?

You can use dairy-free yogurt or coconut yogurt as an alternative to traditional yogurt while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.

How spicy is this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavors and warmth that brings people together. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!