Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table, this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is just the ticket! It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, filled with vibrant flavors and spices that transport you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lively family gathering, this shawarma is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its ease of preparation. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it quickly on a grill or skillet, making it perfect for those nights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your favorite pita bread and fresh veggies, and let’s create a meal that’s not only tasty but also perfect for sharing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of active cooking time after marinating, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
• Packed with Flavor: The warm spices and tangy yogurt marinade infuse the chicken with deliciousness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good wrap! Kids and adults alike will enjoy customizing their shawarma with their favorite toppings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken up to overnight, so dinner can be as simple as grilling and serving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in pitas, on rice, or even as a salad base – the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma. Everything you need is easy to find at your local grocery store!

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and make it your own.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the spices: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the cayenne pepper or add herbs like oregano or thyme instead.
• Make it spicy: Add some chili sauce or harissa to your marinade for an extra kick!
• Go gluten-free: Serve the shawarma over quinoa or in lettuce wraps instead of pita bread.

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 aromatic spices. This marinade is crucial because it infuses flavor into the chicken while keeping it tender and juicy during cooking.

Step 2: Marinate Your Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re well coated. Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a sealable bag. Let it refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is best if you have time! This allows all those amazing flavors to meld beautifully into every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken thighs. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and slightly charred. That beautiful caramelization adds so much depth of flavor!

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps retain juices within the meat. Then slice thinly against the grain for tender pieces that are perfect for stuffing into pita bread.

Step 5: Assemble Your Shawarma

Now comes the fun part! Fill your pita bread with sliced chicken, fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top, and don’t forget any optional toppings you love—feta cheese or pickled onions work wonderfully here!

And there you have it—a delightful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Making the perfect chicken shawarma at home is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful and delicious.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors, making the meat even more tender and aromatic.

• Don’t Rush Cooking: Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat allows for a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy. Avoid flipping too often to get those beautiful grill marks!

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s cooked through but still moist.

• Let It Rest: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making each bite succulent and flavorful.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Add more cayenne if you like it spicy or a pinch of sumac for an extra tangy flavor!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Presenting your Middle Eastern chicken shawarma can be as fun as eating it! With colorful accompaniments and fresh ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s visually appealing and full of flavor.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving enhances all the spices and flavors.
• Tahini sauce: Drizzling tahini sauce over the top adds a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice provides a light complement to the rich shawarma.

• Hummus: Serve with homemade or store-bought hummus for dipping; its creamy texture pairs perfectly with warm pita bread.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs add color and nutrition to your meal.

• Cucumber yogurt salad: Cool down your palate with this yogurt-based salad mixed with cucumbers, garlic, and fresh dill—a perfect contrast to the spiced chicken!

With these tips and serving ideas, your Middle Eastern chicken shawarma will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can marinate and cook the chicken in advance, then store it for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the chicken cool down.
• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma.

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

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep an eye on cooking time, as breasts may cook faster and can become dry if overcooked.

How spicy is this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe?

The spiciness of this recipe can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper used in the marinade. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and increase according to your preference.

What toppings go well with Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

You can enhance your shawarma with toppings like fresh parsley, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, or pickled onions. Feel free to get creative!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with marinated grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long should I marinate my chicken for Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

For best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours but ideally overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors that bring people together. Enjoy every bite and share it with loved ones—I’m sure they’ll love it just as much as you do. Happy cooking!