Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a meal that packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare, this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe is exactly what you need! This dish is my go-to when I want to impress friends or family without spending hours in the kitchen. The warm spices and juicy chicken create a delightful combination that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a fun gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household too!

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can serve it with fresh veggies and your favorite toppings, making it a fun and interactive meal. Plus, it’s just as delicious as leftovers, so you really can’t go wrong!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chicken shawarma! Kids and adults alike will enjoy building their own wraps.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for maximum flavor and ease during busy evenings.
• Flavorful and Healthy: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but good for you too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make this delightful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma. You probably already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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 Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some fun ways to mix things up!

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even marinated tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Load up your pita with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted eggplant for extra flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with smoked paprika or sumac for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more cayenne pepper or serve with a spicy sauce on the side.

How to Make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all your wonderful spices. This marinade is what infuses the chicken with delicious flavors. The yogurt helps tenderize the meat while keeping it juicy.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to your marinade and coat them well. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—or overnight for maximum taste. Allowing time for marination is crucial; it ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5–7 minutes per side until they’re fully cooked and slightly charred. This step gives your shawarma those lovely grill marks—plus that smoky flavor we all adore.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly. Resting allows juices to redistribute within the meat so that each slice remains moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve Your Shawarma

Now comes the fun part! Serve your beautifully sliced chicken in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top along with any optional toppings you love! Enjoy building your wraps—this dish is perfect for sharing!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Creating the perfect chicken shawarma at home can be a rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll be on your way to impressing family and friends!

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight maximizes the infusion of flavors from the spices and yogurt. The longer it sits, the more tender and delicious your chicken will be.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F not only guarantees it’s cooked through but also helps maintain juiciness—no one likes dry chicken!

• Get That Charred Flavor: If possible, use a grill rather than a skillet. The char from grilling adds depth and authenticity to the dish, providing that signature shawarma taste.

• Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your taste. If you like it spicy, add more; if you prefer milder flavors, reduce it. This allows everyone to enjoy the meal according to their personal preference.

• Slice Against the Grain: When it’s time to slice the chicken, cut against the grain for tender bites. This technique ensures each piece is easy to chew and packed with flavor.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving chicken shawarma can be as fun as making it! With vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this dish is sure to be a showstopper at any table. Here are some ideas on how to present your savory creation.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.
• Tahini sauce: Drizzling tahini over your shawarma brings a creamy texture and nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon right before eating enhances all the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, mint, bulgur wheat (or quinoa for gluten-free), and lemon juice pairs nicely with shawarma and balances out its richness.
• Hummus: Creamy hummus is perfect for dipping pita bread or as an accompaniment to your chicken. Its smooth texture contrasts well with the grilled meat.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings sweetness and crunch that complement the spiced chicken perfectly.
• Fattoush salad: This vibrant salad features mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and crispy pita chips dressed in a tangy sumac vinaigrette—a delightful contrast to the savory shawarma.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Middle Eastern feast centered around your delicious chicken shawarma! Enjoy sharing this meal with loved ones; it’s sure to become a favorite in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is perfect for meal prep! You can easily marinate the chicken in advance, and it stores beautifully for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep pita bread and fresh vegetables separate to maintain their freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
• You can also microwave on a low setting for 1-2 minutes, ensuring not to overcook the chicken.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dish!

How can I make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma spicier?

To add more heat to your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma, simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice marinade. You can also include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy sauce on the side.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for shawarma?

Yes! While chicken thighs provide more juiciness and flavor, you can definitely use boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.

What sides pair well with Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma pairs beautifully with sides like tabbouleh salad, hummus, or roasted vegetables. Fresh salads and rice dishes are also great options!

Can I make this recipe without yogurt?

Absolutely! If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the yogurt with additional olive oil or use a plant-based yogurt alternative that fits your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your shawarma adventures!