why make this recipe
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful dish that brings the tastes of the Middle East right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a quick meal. The marinated chicken is tender and juicy, paired with fresh vegetables and wrapped in warm pita bread, making it both delicious and satisfying. Plus, the garlic sauce adds a rich and creamy finish that everyone will love.
how to make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or flatbreads for serving
- Fresh vegetables (like tomato, cucumber) for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together garlic, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken in pita bread or flatbreads with fresh vegetables, and drizzle garlic sauce on top. Garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your savory Chicken Shawarma!
how to serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Serve the Chicken Shawarma in warm pita or flatbreads, adding fresh vegetables like sliced tomatoes and cucumbers. Drizzle with garlic sauce and top with chopped parsley for extra flavor. This dish can be enjoyed as a wrap or on a plate with a side of your favorite dipping sauces.
how to store Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can also warm the pita bread slightly before serving for a fresh taste.
tips to make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor.
- Make sure to preheat the grill or oven for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize your fillings by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or lettuce.
variation (if any)
You can try different proteins like beef or lamb if you’re looking for variations. Additionally, you can use naan bread instead of pita for a different texture. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with marinated grilled vegetables or falafel.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster and could be less juicy.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can cook the chicken in the oven using a broiler or in a skillet on the stove.
Q: Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix together garlic, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken in pita bread or flatbreads with fresh vegetables, and drizzle garlic sauce on top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.