Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Introduction

What if you could enjoy authentic, flavorful Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home in just one hour? This easy and delicious recipe offers rich spices and creamy garlic sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add the chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Step 2: Preheat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a few drops of oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
3. Step 3: Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust garlic to taste for more kick if desired.
5. Step 5: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Serve in pita bread or on a plate and drizzle generously with garlic sauce. Accompany with fresh vegetables, pickled turnips, or a simple salad.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with marinated mushrooms or tofu.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamier chicken texture.
• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or silken tofu in the garlic sauce for a lighter version.
• Serve with whole-wheat pita for added fiber and pair with tabbouleh salad or pickled vegetables.
• Marinate chicken overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For meal prep, marinate chicken the night before and keep garlic sauce separately chilled. Reheat chicken gently in a pan over low heat and serve with freshly made garlic sauce for best taste.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but watch the cooking time closely to avoid dryness, as they cook faster than thighs.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The garlic sauce can be prepared up to three days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 149 reviews

Experience the authentic Middle Eastern flavors of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce in just 60 minutes. This easy, flavorful recipe uses a blend of aromatic spices to marinate tender chicken strips, cooked to juicy perfection on the grill or stovetop, and served with a creamy, garlicky sauce. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, and customizable to suit vegetarian or lighter preferences.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken Shawarma:

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
2. Preheat Your Grill or Pan: Heat a grill or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a few drops of oil to the surface to prevent sticking and facilitate browning of the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken strips onto the preheated grill or pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding extra garlic if desired for more pungency.
5. Assemble and Serve: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces if needed. Serve the chicken in pita bread or on a plate, drizzled generously with garlic sauce. Accompany with fresh vegetables, pickled turnips, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; overnight is best for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
• Do not overcook the chicken to avoid dryness; aim for a golden brown crust and juicy interior.
• Use garlic sauce sparingly to balance flavors without overpowering the spices.
• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a pan before serving.
• For a lighter garlic sauce, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or silken tofu.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with marinated mushrooms or tofu.

Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Garlic Sauce, Middle Eastern Recipe, Grilled Chicken, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Dinner, Chicken Marinade, Homemade Shawarma, Authentic Shawarma, Garlic Sauce Recipe