If you’re a flavor lover seeking a delightful meal, you’re in for a treat! Chicken shawarma with garlic sauce combines juicy chicken and a creamy, zesty sauce that’s hard to resist. This dish is perfect for any gathering or a cozy dinner at home. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the marinade to grilling the chicken to perfection. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: This chicken shawarma is packed with aromatic spices that create a rich, flavorful experience in every bite.
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: The homemade garlic sauce adds a luscious creaminess that perfectly complements the spiced chicken.
- Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables and adjust the spiciness to make this dish your own!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons ground paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For chicken shawarma, I love using boneless chicken thighs. They are juicy and full of flavor. Fresh garlic adds a tasty kick, while spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric bring warmth and depth. Yogurt and olive oil make the chicken tender and moist.
Garlic Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon water (to adjust consistency, if needed)
For the garlic sauce, I mix mayonnaise with minced garlic and lemon juice. This creates a creamy and zesty sauce. Adjust the water to make it smoother or thicker, depending on your preference.
Recommended Accompaniments
- Pita bread
- Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, pickles)
Serve your chicken shawarma with warm pita bread. I also recommend fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, shredded lettuce, and pickles. They add crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the shawarma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
To start, you need to prepare the marinade. In a large bowl, mix the following:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons ground paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Blend these together until smooth. This mix will give the chicken its rich flavor.
Next, add 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure to coat each piece well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the chicken sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you can wait overnight, the flavor will be even better.
Cooking the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot.
Once hot, take the chicken out of the marinade. Let any extra marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid any raw chicken contamination.
Grill the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once grilled, move the chicken to a plate. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This makes it juicier. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips for easy serving.
Preparing the Garlic Sauce
While the chicken rests, you can whip up the garlic sauce. In a small bowl, mix:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon water (add more if needed)
Whisk these together until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency. This creamy garlic sauce will enhance your shawarma’s taste.
Now you’re ready to assemble and enjoy your chicken shawarma!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade
To make great Chicken Shawarma, start with the marinade. Mix garlic, spices, yogurt, and oil well. Allow the chicken to soak in the flavors overnight. This step makes a big difference. It helps the spices blend and enhances the taste. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste. More cayenne means more heat!
Grilling Techniques
When it comes to grilling, I recommend using a stovetop grill pan or an outdoor grill. Both work well, but they give different flavors. The stovetop is great for quick meals. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. If using an outdoor grill, keep the lid closed. This keeps the heat in and cooks the chicken evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve the Chicken Shawarma in warm pita breads. Add fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. For a nice touch, drizzle the garlic sauce over the top. Wrap the shawarma in parchment paper for a fun look. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This adds color and flavor to your dish.
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for Best Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight if possible. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat significantly.
- Grill with Care: Preheat the grill properly to achieve a good sear on the chicken, which locks in juices and adds delicious smokiness.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the garlic sauce ingredients based on your taste preference; adding herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor.
- Serve with Freshness: Include a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs as toppings to add crunch and freshness to your shawarma.
Variations
Different Meat Options
You can use beef or lamb for shawarma. Both meats add unique flavor. Beef gives a rich taste, while lamb offers a juicy bite. Just season them like you would with chicken. The same spices work great with these meats. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the meat. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for beef and lamb.
Vegetarian Options
If you want a meat-free meal, try tofu or seitan. Tofu absorbs the marinade well and adds protein. Cut the tofu into thick slices to grill. For seitan, slice it thin to mimic chicken. Both options provide great texture and flavor. Use the same spices for a tasty result. Don't forget to grill until they are golden.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the shawarma flavor with fresh herbs. Try adding parsley, mint, or cilantro to the marinade. Each herb brings its own twist. You can also experiment with spices. Adding smoked paprika or za'atar can elevate the dish. Mixing in some lemon zest adds a bright, fresh note. Don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You want to keep your chicken shawarma fresh. First, let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. Seal it well to keep out air. Store your chicken shawarma in the fridge for up to three days. If you have leftover garlic sauce, store it in a separate container. It can last up to a week in the fridge. Make sure to label your containers with dates.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your chicken shawarma again, reheat it gently. The best way to do this is in a skillet. Heat the skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. Cook for about 5 minutes or until it’s warm. For the pita, wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven. This method keeps it soft and tasty. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pita tough.
Freezing Guidelines
Yes, you can freeze chicken shawarma! To do so, let it cool completely. Place the chicken in freezer bags. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet for the best flavor. Just remember, the garlic sauce doesn’t freeze well. It's best to make that fresh when you're ready to serve.
FAQs
What kind of bread is best for Chicken Shawarma?
For Chicken Shawarma, I recommend using pita bread. It is soft and perfect for wrapping. You can also use flatbreads. They hold the fillings well and add great flavor. Look for fresh pita for the best taste. You can warm the bread on the grill for extra softness. This step makes it easy to fold around the chicken and veggies.
Can I make Chicken Shawarma ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Shawarma in advance. Marinate the chicken a day before, and it will taste even better. After grilling, slice the chicken and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just reheat the chicken gently. Use a skillet or microwave for quick reheating. This method keeps the chicken juicy and tasty.
How spicy is Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?
The spice level in Chicken Shawarma can vary. The recipe includes cayenne pepper, which adds heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of cayenne. You can also skip it if you want a milder taste. The creamy garlic sauce helps balance the spice. It adds richness and flavor, making the dish enjoyable for everyone.
In this post, we covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for making Chicken Shawarma. We explored the marinade, grilling methods, and delicious garlic sauce. Remember, you can adapt the recipe for different meats or vegetarian options. Storing and reheating leftovers is simple and effective. Enjoy creating your own vibrant meals, and impress your family and friends. With these tips, you’ll make tasty Chicken Shawarma every time. Now, go ahead and enjoy your cooking adventure!
