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Savor the Flavor Recipe

Savor the Flavor Recipe

5.2 from 9 reviews

This Chicken Shawarma recipe offers a tantalizing blend of Middle Eastern spices wrapped in tender, marinated chicken thighs, served with a creamy garlic sauce and fresh vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Shawarma

  • 1.5 pounds of boneless chicken thighs
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • Salt to taste

For Serving

  • Pita bread or flatbreads
  • Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce)
  • Pickles

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.
  2. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and salt until the sauce is smooth and well incorporated. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, until they are thoroughly cooked and have a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety.
  4. Rest and Slice the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then slice the chicken into thin strips suitable for wrapping or serving.
  5. Assemble Your Shawarma: Place the sliced chicken onto warmed pita bread or flatbreads. Top with fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, add pickles, and drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. Serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken overnight if possible for deeper flavor.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper based on desired spice level.
  • Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier sauce.
  • Can be served with rice or salad as alternative sides.
  • Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken shawarma, middle eastern chicken, garlic sauce, grilled chicken, shawarma recipe, pita bread, mediterranean cuisine