Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress, let me introduce you to my favorite Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. The tender chicken, marinated in a delightful blend of spices and yogurt, is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Wrap it up in warm pita bread with fresh veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s not just delicious but also fun to eat!

What makes this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma so special? It’s all about the deep flavors from the spices, combined with the tangy yogurt and zesty lemon. Plus, the preparation is simple enough that even beginner cooks will feel like pros!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time (plus marinating), this dish fits perfectly into any schedule!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love wrapping their own shawarma with fresh veggies.
• Make-ahead convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for a hassle-free dinner.
• Flavor explosion: The warm spices create an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible scents.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items, and you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering meal!

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 mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even turkey for a leaner option.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chickpeas or grilled vegetables for the meat and still enjoy those fabulous spices.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Add some heat: If you love spicy food, toss in some sliced jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce over your finished shawarma.

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 delightful spices. This marinade will not only infuse flavor into the chicken but also keep it juicy while cooking. It’s important to mix everything well so each bite bursts with flavor!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs into the marinade and ensure they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better! This step is essential because it allows the flavors to meld beautifully into the meat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

When you’re ready to eat, preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each side of the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until they are fully cooked and have a lovely char. This charring adds depth to both flavor and presentation!

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly. This resting period helps retain moisture within the meat. Now it’s time to serve—load up pita bread with slices of that flavorful chicken along with fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes. Don’t forget to sprinkle some parsley on top for that extra burst of color!

Enjoy sharing this lovely Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with friends and family—it’s bound to become a beloved favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Creating the perfect Middle Eastern chicken shawarma at home is easier than you think, and these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time!

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

• High Heat Cooking: Cook your chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping it juicy inside. This balance enhances texture and flavor.

• Rest Before Slicing: After cooking, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice quantities to suit your personal taste. Adding more cayenne can give it a kick, while reducing cumin can mellow the flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh herbs and vegetables in your wraps. Not only do they add color, but they also bring freshness and crunch that beautifully complements the rich chicken.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving up your homemade chicken shawarma can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas for presentation that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the meat.
• Sliced radishes: Thinly sliced radishes offer a crisp texture and peppery bite, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your wrap.
• Drizzle of tahini sauce: For added creaminess, drizzle tahini sauce over your assembled shawarma; it brings a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the spices.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, bulgur, and a lemony dressing. It’s light and balances out the richness of chicken shawarma.

• Hummus: Creamy hummus made from blended chickpeas is a classic Mediterranean dip that pairs wonderfully with pita bread and adds extra protein to your meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant roasted with olive oil and spices makes for a nutritious side that adds depth to your plate.

• Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, crunchy pita chips, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy dressing; it’s refreshing and provides a great contrast to warm shawarma wraps.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delicious Middle Eastern chicken shawarma! Gather your loved ones around the table for an unforgettable meal filled with delightful flavors. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious chicken shawarma.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Keep any additional toppings separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken shawarma in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date!
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, warm the chicken on a skillet over medium heat until heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals until warm, ensuring not to overcook.
• If using pita bread, wrap it in foil and warm it alongside the chicken for a few minutes in the oven.

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! While chicken thighs provide a juicier result, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred. Just be mindful that they might cook faster and could be less tender.

How do I make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma spicy?

To increase the heat level of your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma, simply add more cayenne pepper or include sliced fresh chili peppers into your marinade. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!

What are some good toppings for Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

You can top your shawarma with fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes, pickled onions, or even feta cheese for added flavor. Customize based on your taste preferences!

Can I marinate the chicken shawarma overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating your chicken overnight enhances flavors significantly. Just ensure it’s properly sealed in the fridge to keep it fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this flavorful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Share it with family or friends for a memorable meal full of delicious flavors. Happy cooking!