Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

A delicious aroma wafts through the kitchen as the marinated chicken sizzles away, each piece beautifully seared and bursting with flavor. This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce takes about 1 hour to prepare and cook, delivering an authentic Middle Eastern taste that’s both satisfying and vibrant. The harmonious blend of spices ensures every bite transports you straight to the bustling streets where this dish is celebrated.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to serve an impressive meal at home, whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. You can make the marinade ahead of time and let the chicken soak up the flavors overnight for the best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The blend of spices brings warmth and depth to each bite.
• Juicy chicken with a satisfying char that adds a delightful texture.
• Quick cooking time allows for a speedy weeknight dinner.
• Creamy garlic sauce balances the spices perfectly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful dish.

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pita bread or flatbreads, for serving
• Lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for garnish

For the Garlic Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter sauce.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breasts.
• Olive oil may be swapped for avocado oil.
• Fresh toppings can include cucumbers or bell peppers.
• Use tahini in place of mayonnaise for a different flavor.

How to Make It

Start cooking by following these simple steps.

1. Mix marinade

In a bowl, mix the cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.

2. Marinate chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

3. Preheat grill

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Cook chicken

Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and charred.

5. Rest chicken

Remove chicken from heat and let it rest before slicing.

6. Prepare garlic sauce

For the garlic sauce, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl and mix well.

7. Assemble shawarma

Serve the sliced chicken in pita or flatbreads, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a drizzle of garlic sauce.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, it’s great for freezing leftovers.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the chicken marinate overnight for fuller flavor absorption.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
• Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor that adds depth.
• Don’t skip resting time to keep the chicken juicy.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a refreshing tabbouleh salad.
• Serve alongside hummus and roasted vegetables.
• Enjoy with a side of crispy fries for a casual meal.