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 (or dairy-free alternative); 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; Pita bread; Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes)

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, I have just the recipe for you: Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma! This dish is a delightful way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken marinated in warm spices and served with fresh veggies. It’s not just satisfying; it’s also an experience you can share with family or friends, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easily it comes together. With simple ingredients and a little bit of time to let those flavors meld, you’ll have a meal that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Trust me, once you try making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma at home, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it suitable for busy nights.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the flavors in this chicken shawarma—it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken in advance, so dinner is ready when you are.
Flavor Packed: The blend of spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone eager to eat.
Customizable: Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides for a meal that suits everyone’s taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma! You’ll find everything you need right here:

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

One of the best things about this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even marinated tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add some heat: If you love spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Change up the veggies: Use whatever fresh vegetables you have—bell peppers, radishes, or lettuce all work great!
Experiment with sauces: A drizzle of tahini sauce or garlic sauce can take your shawarma to another level.

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, minced garlic, and all those wonderful spices. This marinade is key—it infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it juicy during cooking. The yogurt helps tenderize the meat and adds creaminess without being heavy.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade and coat them well. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better! This resting time allows all those spices to penetrate deep into the chicken, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on it. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and slightly charred. That caramelization adds depth of flavor that makes this dish so special!

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After cooking, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly. This helps lock in juices so each piece stays tender. Now comes the fun part! Serve your sliced shawarma in warm 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 love!

Enjoy sharing this flavorful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with loved ones—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Cooking up a delicious Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma at home is easier than you think, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness. The longer it sits in the marinade, the more the spices will penetrate the meat.
Use High Heat: Cooking your chicken on medium-high heat helps achieve those beautiful char marks while keeping it juicy inside. A good sear adds depth to the flavor and texture.
Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent bite.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Add more cayenne for extra heat or swap in your favorite spices for a unique twist.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for garnish and toppings. Fresh ingredients add brightness and contrast that perfectly complement the savory chicken.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma can be as fun as making it! There are countless ways to present this flavorful dish, allowing everyone to customize their meal just how they like.

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Tahini Sauce: Drizzle some creamy tahini sauce over the shawarma for added richness and nutty flavor.
Sliced Green Onions: Add thinly sliced green onions for a bit of crunch and an oniony kick that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and lemon juice complements shawarma beautifully by adding a zesty brightness.
Hummus: Creamy hummus made from chickpeas is perfect for dunking pita bread or drizzling over your plated shawarma. It’s rich in flavor and protein!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant provide a sweet caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with the warm spices of shawarma.
Fattoush Salad: A crunchy salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and crispy pita chips tossed in tangy sumac dressing makes an excellent accompaniment to balance out the heartiness of the chicken.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma will be not only delicious but also visually appealing—perfect for sharing with family and friends! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, flavorful meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Keep the pita bread and vegetables separate to maintain their texture.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken shawarma in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
For best results, slice the chicken before freezing for easier portioning later.
Avoid freezing fresh vegetables as they don’t thaw well.

Reheating

Reheat thawed chicken shawarma in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
You can also microwave it on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
For crispy edges, consider reheating it on a grill pan or in an air fryer.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious recipe.

What is Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful dish made from marinated grilled chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of spices, served typically in pita bread with fresh vegetables and toppings.

Can I make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma without yogurt?

Yes! You can substitute yogurt with additional olive oil or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep the marinade creamy without using dairy.

How can I add more flavor to my Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Consider adding more spices such as smoked paprika or experimenting with herbs like mint. Also, try marinating overnight for maximum flavor infusion!

What should I serve with Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

This dish pairs well with fresh salads, hummus, tabbouleh, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside rice or couscous for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have as much fun making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as I did! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!

Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Main
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

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Description

Discover the delectable flavors of Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma, a dish that combines tender marinated chicken with aromatic spices for a culinary experience that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a delightful blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. Serve it in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this chicken shawarma will quickly become a go-to favorite. Plus, it’s simple enough for busy weeknights and versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
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
Pita bread
Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and spices.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight preferred).
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly. Serve in pita bread with fresh vegetables and optional toppings.