Chicken Shawarma

Juicy and flavorful Chicken Shawarma is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe features marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection. With creamy tzatziki and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita bread, each bite is an explosion of flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious homemade meal that rivals restaurant quality.
• Flavor Packed: The marinade, rich with spices like cumin and coriander, infuses the chicken with deep flavors.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or sauces to personalize each shawarma.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra chicken for sandwiches throughout the week or serve it over salads.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves four people, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Chicken Shawarma, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These items will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Zip-top bag or airtight container
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the high heat necessary for achieving those perfect char marks on the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your marinade ingredients and ensuring even coating of the chicken.
• Cutting board and knife: Necessary for slicing the cooked chicken and preparing fresh toppings safely.

Ingredients

Juicy chicken thighs marinated in Middle Eastern spices, grilled to perfection, and served with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki in warm pita bread.

Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup good quality olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons ground paprika (sweet or smoked works well)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced into thin half-moons
– 4-6 pieces of fresh pita bread
– 1 mini cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
– 2 small tomatoes, diced
– 1 head romaine lettuce, thinly sliced
– 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 batch homemade tzatziki sauce (optional but recommended)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined – olive oil, minced garlic, ground coriander, cumin, paprika, salt, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice. The marinade should be fragrant with a beautiful amber color from all those wonderful spices.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs and sliced onion in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and onions. Use your hands (with gloves if you prefer) to massage the marinade into the meat. Ensure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; overnight marination gives you the most flavorful results.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-425°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a grill, using a grill pan or cast iron skillet on medium-high heat works well too.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade gently shaking off any excess. Place it on the hot grill. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and gets nice char marks. You can also grill the marinated onions alongside for added flavor.

Step 5: Rest and Slice Chicken

Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout keeping it moist. After resting, slice chicken into thin strips against the grain.

Step 6: Prepare Fresh Toppings

While resting your chicken, prepare your fresh toppings if you haven’t already. Slice cucumber, dice tomatoes, slice romaine lettuce and thinly slice red onion. If making tzatziki sauce from scratch ensure it’s ready before serving.

Step 7: Warm Pita Bread

Quickly warm your pita bread on the grill for about 30 seconds per side. Alternatively wrap them in foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for about 20–30 seconds.

Step 8: Assemble Your Shawarma

To build your shawarma take a warm pita. Layer sliced chicken and grilled onions then top with cucumber slices, diced tomatoes, romaine lettuce strips and red onion slices. Finish with tzatziki sauce drizzled on top. For easier eating wrap bottom half of each shawarma in parchment paper or foil.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Shawarma!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma

Serving Chicken Shawarma is a delightful experience that combines vibrant flavors and textures. The tender, spiced chicken pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sauces, making each bite memorable.

Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumbers: Thinly sliced or diced for a refreshing crunch.
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add juiciness and sweetness.
• Lettuce: Shredded romaine provides a crisp texture.
• Red Onions: Thinly sliced for a sharp, tangy bite.

Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy yogurt sauce that complements the spices perfectly.
• Garlic Sauce: A rich, garlicky option for those who love bold flavors.
• Hot Sauce: For a spicy kick, drizzle your favorite hot sauce on top.

Pita Bread Variations

• Grilled Pita: Warmed on the grill adds a nice charred flavor.
• Stuffed Pita: Fill with Chicken Shawarma and fresh veggies for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma

Perfecting Chicken Shawarma involves paying attention to the marinade, cooking method, and presentation. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight yields the best flavor.
• High Heat Grilling: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve char marks and juicy meat.
• Resting Time: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
• Slice Against the Grain: This technique keeps the chicken tender and easy to eat.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for topping to enhance flavor and texture.
• Warm Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread to complement the warm filling of chicken and veggies.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma

Pairing sides with Chicken Shawarma can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious side dishes that complement this Middle Eastern delight.

1. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that pairs perfectly with pita chips or fresh veggies.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
3. Fattoush Salad: A colorful salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized; they add depth to your meal.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices and broth that serves as a great base alongside shawarma.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles provide a sharp contrast to the savory flavors of the shawarma.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Shawarma, even small errors can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Many people rush the marination process. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—preferably overnight—ensures the flavors penetrate deeply and enhance the juiciness.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The success of Chicken Shawarma relies on high-quality spices and olive oil. Invest in fresh spices and good olive oil to elevate your dish’s flavor significantly.

• Overcrowding the Grill: Putting too much chicken on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets that perfect char and cooks evenly.

• Not Letting Chicken Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can dry it out. Always let your chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

• Neglecting Fresh Toppings: Some skip adding fresh vegetables or sauces, thinking they are unnecessary. Fresh toppings like cucumbers and tzatziki add a refreshing crunch that balances the spiced chicken beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep any fresh toppings separate to maintain their freshness.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma

• Freeze cooked Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and warm the chicken, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from marinated grilled chicken, typically served in pita with fresh vegetables and sauces like tzatziki.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Chicken Shawarma?

Yes, while thighs are traditional due to their juiciness, you can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I customize my Chicken Shawarma?

You can customize your Chicken Shawarma by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or pickles, or using various sauces such as garlic sauce or hummus instead of tzatziki.

Is Chicken Shawarma healthy?

Chicken Shawarma can be quite healthy! It’s packed with protein from the chicken, especially when served with fresh vegetables. Just be mindful of portion sizes and sauces used.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it. Just remember to cook it within safe time limits!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Shawarma is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing endless customization options based on your preferences. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or quick sandwich, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or sauces to make it your own!

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