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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 35

Description

Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right at home. Whether you grill, pan-fry, or bake, this dish delivers juicy, spiced chicken wrapped in warm pita with a tangy and creamy garlic sauce. Serve it with fresh vegetables, pickles, and a side of hummus for a complete meal. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests—this shawarma recipe is a must-try!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp plain yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground cumin

Additional Toppings & Sides:

  • Warm pita bread or flatbreads
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Pickled turnips or pickled onions
  • Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful and juicy Middle Eastern dish that has become a global favorite. Traditionally, it is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but this homemade version brings the same bold spices and tenderness using a simple pan, oven, or grill. Marinated in warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon, the chicken becomes deeply flavorful and aromatic. Paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, fresh vegetables, and warm pita, this dish is a showstopper that is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings.

Notes

  • Marination Time: For the most flavorful results, marinate overnight.
  • Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts, but both work well.
  • Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25

Nutrition

  • Calories: 420
  • Sodium: 720
  • Protein: 35