Irresistible Chicken Shawarma : Best Homemade Recipe

Looking for a bold, flavorful, and authentic meal that brings the Mediterranean right to your kitchen? This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a game-changer. Whether you’re craving a street-style wrap or a healthy dinner plate, this recipe delivers juicy, spice-rubbed chicken paired with a creamy, tangy garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks, meal preppers, and food lovers looking for the best Chicken Shawarma recipe that’s both authentic and easy. Ready to transform your dinner table? Let’s dive in.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Shawarma

This Garlic Chicken Shawarma is more than just a recipe—it’s a flavor explosion. Marinated in warming Middle Eastern spices, yogurt, and lemon, the chicken is tender, aromatic, and irresistibly delicious. The real magic happens when it’s paired with the creamy Mediterranean garlic sauce—also called toum—that elevates every bite.

Whether wrapped in warm pita, served with rice, or laid over a fresh salad, this dish fits every mood and meal. Best of all? It’s simple to make and deeply satisfying.

Essential Chicken Shawarma Spices

The heart of every good Shawarma Recipe Chicken lies in the seasoning. Here’s a quick overview of the traditional Chicken Shawarma spices that build bold, earthy flavor:

• Cumin – warm and smoky
• Paprika – sweet and slightly sharp
• Turmeric – adds earthy depth and vibrant color
• Cinnamon – subtle sweetness
• Garlic powder – sharp and savory
• Onion powder – mild sweetness and depth
• Coriander – citrusy and aromatic
• Allspice – warm, slightly peppery undertone
• Black pepper – heat and depth
• Salt – enhances all other flavors

These spices combined with yogurt and lemon juice create an unbeatable marinade for juicy, seasoned perfection.

Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this authentic Chicken Shawarma recipe, divided by chicken and garlic sauce:

🐔 For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

🧄 For the Garlic Sauce (Toum):

• 1 cup garlic cloves (about 3-4 heads, peeled)
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 cup neutral oil (like sunflower or canola)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1–2 tablespoons ice water (if needed for texture)

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Kitchen Equipment Needed for Easy Shawarma Chicken Recipe

To make this easy Shawarma Chicken recipe, you’ll need:

• Cutting board & knife
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons & cups
• Blender or food processor (for garlic sauce)
• Grill pan, cast iron skillet, or oven tray
• Tongs
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Storage containers (for leftovers)

How to Make Chicken Shawarma – Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these simple steps to bring your Greek recipes chicken to life:

🔪 1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and all the spices until smooth. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.

🔥 2. Cook the Chicken

Grill or Skillet Method:
Preheat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until charred on the edges and cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F/75°C).

Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil. Place chicken on tray and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for crispy edges.

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Making the Mediterranean Sauce for Chicken (Garlic Sauce)

This Mediterranean sauce for chicken is known as toum, a rich, garlicky emulsion that adds depth and brightness to the dish.

🧄 How to Make It:

1. Add peeled garlic cloves and salt to a food processor.
2. Pulse until finely minced, scraping the sides as needed.
3. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the oil, alternating with lemon juice.
4. Blend until thick and fluffy.
5. Add a spoonful of cold water if needed to adjust texture.

Pro Tip: Make sure your garlic is fresh and your oil is added slowly to keep the sauce from breaking.

Serving & Presentation Tips for Greek Recipes Chicken

Presentation turns this Greek recipes chicken into a feast. Serve sliced chicken over warm pita or flatbread. Add shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with garlic sauce and a sprinkle of sumac or parsley.

For a plate version, serve with rice or couscous, a side of hummus, and a cucumber yogurt salad. Colorful garnishes and bowls of side sauces make this an impressive dish for guests or family.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Shawarma Recipe Chicken

Avoid these pitfalls to perfect your Shawarma recipe chicken:

• Skipping the marinade time: Less than 4 hours won’t develop full flavor.
• Using dry chicken breast only: Thighs stay juicier and more tender.
• Overcooking: Watch carefully to avoid dry, rubbery meat.
• Crowding the pan: Cook in batches to maintain high heat and browning.
• Adding too much garlic to the sauce at once: It will overpower the emulsion.

Chicken Shawarma Recipe Tips & Variations

Looking for ways to adapt this Chicken Shawarma recipe authentic to your tastes? Try these variations:

• No yogurt? Use sour cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
• No grill? Use a broiler or cast iron skillet to get crispy edges.
• Spicier option? Add cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Low-carb version? Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
• Vegetarian twist? Use the same marinade for portobello mushrooms or tofu.

Storing Leftovers & Reheating

Storage:
Keep leftover chicken and garlic sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
Reheat chicken in a hot skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the meat. Garlic sauce is best served cold and not reheated.

Freezing:
Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Perfect Side Dishes & Pairings

Complement your shawarma with these side dishes:

• Hummus or baba ganoush
• Tabbouleh or fattoush salad
• Pita bread or flatbread
• Roasted vegetables or spiced potatoes
• Cucumber yogurt dip

Beverage pairing tip: Serve with mint tea, lemon water, or a cucumber smoothie for a refreshing balance.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Seasoning Chicken Shawarma

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breast, watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Can I freeze the garlic sauce?
No. Garlic sauce does not freeze well—it tends to separate. Make fresh when needed.

Can I grill this outdoors?
Absolutely! This recipe works great on a charcoal or gas grill. Adds smoky flavor.

Is this spicy?
The base recipe is flavorful, not spicy. Add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.

What’s the best yogurt for the marinade?
Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt works best for flavor and texture.

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