Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold, aromatic flavors and can come together in under 30 minutes, the Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is an absolute must-try. This easy, flavorful recipe brings the magic of Middle Eastern street food right into your kitchen with tender, spiced chicken and a luscious garlic sauce that perfectly complements every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests, this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavor Explosion: The mix of spices and creamy garlic sauce offers a perfectly balanced, mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Meal: Works well as a wrap, salad topping, or on its own for customizable serving options.
• Fresh Ingredients: Uses simple, wholesome ingredients that contribute to a healthy and vibrant dish.
• Impressively Authentic: Provides that genuine shawarma experience without needing special equipment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce comes from its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in layering flavors, creating tender texture, and adding vibrant colors that make the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Chicken thighs: Use boneless and skinless for juicy, tender meat that holds spices well.
• Shawarma spice mix: A blend of cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and coriander for that classic shawarma flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is key for the rich, aromatic garlic sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang to the garlic sauce while keeping it light.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Olive oil: Essential for marinating and cooking, contributing a smooth, rich texture.
• Salt and pepper: Basic but important to enhance and balance all flavors.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Finishing touch that adds freshness and color.
• Pita or flatbread: Optional, for serving the shawarma in wrap form.

Variations for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak ingredients or presentation to match your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the spice mix for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with grilled cauliflower or mushrooms for a savory plant-based alternative.
• Healthy Twist: Use chicken breast and Greek yogurt-based sauce to reduce fat content.
• Herb Experiment: Incorporate fresh mint or dill for a unique herbal note in the sauce or garnish.
• Different Sauces: Try tahini or hummus alongside the garlic sauce for extra creaminess and variety.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and the shawarma spice mix in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in this marinade and let them rest for at least 10 minutes to soak up all the vibrant flavors.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken marinates, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This creamy garlic sauce will bring the perfect tangy and rich balance to the savory chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Sear the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. The exterior should be slightly crisp, locking in the juicy tenderness.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture, then slice it thinly into strips – this makes it ideal for wrapping or layering onto plates.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliced chicken warm with a generous drizzle of garlic sauce on top. Add fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish and enjoy it on pita bread, in a salad, or alongside your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours if you have time.
• Use Thighs: Chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender than breasts when cooked fast.
• Control Garlic Intensity: Adjust garlic quantity in the sauce according to your love for that sharp, vibrant taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to achieve an even sear and crispiness.
• Rest the Meat: Always rest the chicken before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro bring a pop of color and brightness that enhances the fragrant spices in the chicken. A sprinkle of sumac or sesame seeds can add a subtle tang and crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce with simple, complementary sides such as warm pita bread, crisp cucumber salad, or roasted vegetables for a wonderfully balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving it in a wrap with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, or build a shawarma bowl with rice or quinoa topped with sauce, herbs, and pickled onions for a fresh spin on the classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic sauce separate to maintain its texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken shawarma in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving with fresh sauce.

Reheating

Reheat chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to preserve juiciness. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out. Add fresh garlic sauce after reheating for the best flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast for a leaner option, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking.

How do I make the garlic sauce less strong?

Reduce the amount of fresh garlic or let the sauce sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to mellow the intensity before serving.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just serve the chicken shawarma with gluten-free wraps or enjoy it with salads or rice instead of pita bread.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours ahead or prepare the garlic sauce in advance to save time on your cooking day.

What are some good side dishes with chicken shawarma?

Common sides include tabbouleh, hummus, roasted vegetables, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, all of which complement the spiced chicken beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe is a wonderful way to bring a beloved Middle Eastern classic into your home kitchen with ease and delight. The blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy garlic sauce will not only satisfy your taste buds but also inspire you to get creative with your meals. Give it a try today and watch it become a fast favorite for you and your loved ones!

Related Posts

• Brazilian Coconut Chicken
• Creamy Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes
• Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Print