Creamy Garlic Chicken Shawarma Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic Chicken Shawarma recipe marinated with traditional spices, cooked until perfectly browned, and served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. This easy-to-make Middle Eastern classic is perfect for a satisfying meal any time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with shawarma spices, minced garlic, yogurt, olive oil, and salt. Mix well to coat all pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, mix yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and serve warm, drizzled with garlic sauce. Optionally, accompany with pita bread, fresh veggies, or salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate chicken overnight.
- You can use chicken breasts or thighs, but thighs will be juicier.
- Fresh garlic in the sauce provides a pungent kick; adjust quantity to your preference.
- Shawarma spice mix can be purchased pre-made or homemade with common spices listed.
- Serve with pita, pickles, and fresh vegetables for an authentic experience.
Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Middle Eastern chicken, Garlic sauce, Shawarma spices, Yogurt marinated chicken
