Name: Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes); Pita bread; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and smiles to the table, then this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is for you! There’s something truly special about marinating chicken thighs in aromatic spices and tangy yogurt. The result is a juicy, flavorful meal that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion.

Whenever I make this shawarma, it feels like a little celebration in our home. It’s easy enough to whip up on a hectic day but also fancy enough to serve at dinner parties. Plus, it’s always a hit with family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!
Family-friendly: Kids love wrapping their own pita with fresh veggies and chicken.
Make-ahead convenience: Marinate the chicken overnight for an even richer flavor!
Flavor explosion: Each bite is packed with warm spices that transport you straight to the heart of the Middle East.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it in pita bread or over rice—whatever you prefer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma. Each component plays a role in delivering that mouthwatering flavor we all love.

For the Chicken:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Spice Marinade:

2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade Liquid:

¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving:

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pita bread
Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes)
Optional toppings (such as feta cheese or pickled onions)

Variations

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Add more veggies: Load up your pita with roasted bell peppers or grilled zucchini for added color and crunch!
Experiment with spices: Play around with different spice blends like za’atar or harissa for unique flavors.
Make it spicy: If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne pepper or serve with your favorite hot sauce.

How to Make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and all those lovely spices. This marinade is key—it tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with incredible flavor. The yogurt helps create juiciness that makes every bite memorable.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight if you can wait! The longer they sit in that flavorful mix, the better they’ll taste.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. This step creates those beautiful grill marks while locking in moisture.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly. Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Now comes the fun part! Serve your delicious shawarma in pita bread with fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top and add any optional toppings you like. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Creating the perfect chicken shawarma is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out deliciously every time!

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness. The longer it marinates, the more the spices will infuse into the meat.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and keeps your chicken juicy.
Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the marinade according to your heat preference. If you love spice, feel free to add more!
Experiment with Cooking Methods: While grilling gives a wonderful smoky flavor, you can also bake or pan-sear the chicken if you prefer. Each method adds its own unique touch.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to present this tasty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
Sliced Radishes: These offer a crunchy texture and a slight peppery taste that complements the savory chicken.
Drizzle of Tahini Sauce: A creamy tahini sauce adds richness and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with shawarma.

Side Dishes

Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice is light and complements the spices in shawarma perfectly.
Hummus: A smooth chickpea dip that’s great for spreading on pita or using as a dip for fresh vegetables. It balances well with the bold flavors of shawarma.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal.
Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and crispy pita chips dressed in a tangy sumac vinaigrette brings zest to your plate.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on any table! Enjoy sharing this delightful meal with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in advance, and it stores well, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely.
Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Keep any extra marinade or toppings stored separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

To freeze chicken shawarma, first let it cool completely.
Place sliced chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
You can also reheat in the microwave; just cover and heat in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Yes! While chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

How spicy is Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

The spiciness of this dish depends on how much cayenne pepper you add. Adjust it according to your taste preference—feel free to start with less if you prefer milder flavors!

What toppings go well with Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Some delicious options include chopped fresh parsley, feta cheese, pickled onions, or a drizzle of tahini sauce. Fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes also complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with marinated grilled vegetables or even chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version of shawarma.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as much as I do! The combination of spices creates an incredible flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

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Description

Enjoy tender and juicy Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma marinated in spices and served with pita bread. Try this delicious recipe today!

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes)
Pita bread
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and spices to create the marinade.
Add chicken thighs to the marinade and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
Serve in pita bread with fresh vegetables and garnishes like parsley.