Delicious Homemade Chicken Shawarma

Here’s a delicious recipe for chicken shawarma:

Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • Pita bread or flatbread
  • Fresh vegetables: sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, lettuce
  • Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
  • In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices.
  • Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated with the marinade.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
  1. Cook the Chicken:
  • Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
  • Grill or cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
  1. Slice the Chicken:
  • Remove the chicken from the grill or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
  • Slice the chicken into thin strips.
  1. Assemble the Shawarma:
  • Warm the pita bread or flatbread.
  • Place a generous amount of sliced chicken on each piece of bread.
  • Top with fresh vegetables, parsley, and a drizzle of tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
  • Roll or fold the bread around the fillings.
  1. Serve:
  • Serve the chicken shawarma immediately, while warm.

Tips:

  • Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken overnight yields the best flavor.
  • Cooking Method: You can also bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
  • Serving: Pair the shawarma with a side of hummus, tabbouleh, or a simple salad for a complete meal.