Best Chicken Shawarma Recipe – Juicy & Flavorful

Chicken shawarma is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in aromatic spices, slow-roasted to perfection, and served in warm pita bread with a creamy garlic sauce.

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Whether you’re making it at home or ordering from your favorite street vendor, shawarma is one of the most beloved Middle Eastern street foods. In this article, we’ll explore the history, ingredients, step-by-step preparation, expert tips, and FAQs about chicken shawarma. Let’s dive in!

What Is Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish featuring thinly sliced, marinated chicken stacked onto a vertical rotisserie. It is slow-cooked as it rotates, ensuring even cooking and a crispy, flavorful outer layer. The meat is then shaved off and served in pita bread with fresh vegetables, pickles, and sauces.

Unlike kebabs or gyros, shawarma uses a unique blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon, giving it a rich and complex flavor.

The History of Shawarma

Shawarma has roots in the Ottoman Empire and is believed to have inspired similar dishes like Greek gyros and Mexican al pastor. Originally prepared with lamb or beef, chicken shawarma has gained immense popularity due to its versatility and lighter texture. Today, it’s a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is loved worldwide.

Key Ingredients for the Best Chicken Shawarma

To achieve that signature shawarma flavor, you’ll need:

• Chicken 🍗 – Boneless, skinless thighs work best for juiciness.
• Olive oil 🫒 – Helps coat the chicken with the marinade.
• Yogurt 🥛 – Tenderizes the meat for a soft texture.
• Lemon juice 🍋 – Adds acidity for a balanced taste.
• Garlic 🧄 – Essential for bold flavor.
• Spices 🧂 – A mix of cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances the overall taste.

For serving:

• Pita bread 🥙 – The perfect vessel for your shawarma.
• Garlic sauce (Toum) 🧄 – A creamy, garlicky delight.
• Pickled cucumbers & onions 🥒 – Adds crunch and tang.
• Tomatoes & lettuce 🍅 – For a fresh bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Authentic Chicken Shawarma

Making chicken shawarma at home is easy with the right method. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine:
   • 1 cup plain yogurt
   • 3 tbsp olive oil
   • 2 tbsp lemon juice
   • 4 minced garlic cloves
   • 2 tsp cumin
   • 2 tsp paprika
   • 1 tsp turmeric
   • 1 tsp coriander
   • ½ tsp cinnamon
   • 1 tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Cut 2 lbs of boneless chicken thighs into large strips.
2. Coat the chicken evenly in the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight).

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

You can cook shawarma in three different ways:

• Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking tray and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches for 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade.

Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma

1. Warm pita bread or flatbread.
2. Spread a generous layer of garlic sauce or tahini.
3. Add sliced chicken, tomatoes, pickles, and lettuce.
4. Wrap and serve hot!

How to Make the Perfect Marinade

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The secret to tender and flavorful shawarma lies in its marinade. The yogurt and lemon juice break down the proteins, making the chicken tender, while the spices infuse deep, smoky, and aromatic notes.

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.

Best Side Dishes and Serving Suggestions

Pair your shawarma with these delicious sides:

• Hummus – Creamy and packed with protein.
• Tabbouleh – A refreshing parsley and bulgur salad.
• Fattoush – A crunchy, zesty salad with toasted pita.
• French Fries – The perfect crispy companion.

Expert Tips for the Ultimate Shawarma Experience

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Cook over high heat to achieve a crispy, charred effect.
• Slice thinly for an authentic texture.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Shawarma

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma

Chicken shawarma is high in protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth. When paired with whole wheat pita and fresh vegetables, it becomes a balanced meal. However, moderation is key due to its fat content.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the marinade time – This results in less flavorful chicken.
• Overcooking – Leads to dry, tough meat.
• Using too much sauce – Can overpower the spices.
• Not slicing thinly – Thick pieces won’t have the right texture.

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Best Chicken Shawarma Recipe – Juicy & Flavorful

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cooking

Tender, spiced chicken marinated in aromatic Middle Eastern flavors, grilled to perfection, and wrapped in warm pita with creamy garlic sauce.

4 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Dish, Street Food

Cuisine Middle Eastern

Servings 4 portions

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Skillet or Grill Pan
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

For the Shawarma Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into thin strips
• 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp plain yogurt
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
• 1 tsp sea salt

For Serving

• 4 pita bread warmed
• 1 cup garlic sauce (Toum) homemade or store-bought
• 1 tomato sliced
• 1 cucumber thinly sliced
• 0.5 red onion sliced
• 1 lemon cut into wedges

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, and sea salt to make the marinade.
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• Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for the best flavor).
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• Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
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• Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
• Warm the pita bread and fill with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of garlic sauce.
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• Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor.

Video

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-frying. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Keyword Best Shawarma, Chicken Shawarma, Juicy Chicken Shawarma, Shawarma Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Chicken shawarma is a delightful, flavor-packed dish that you can easily make at home. By using the right marinade, cooking techniques, and toppings, you’ll achieve an authentic shawarma experience that rivals any restaurant. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

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