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chicken shawarma recipe

This chicken shawarma recipe features tender, marinated chicken cooked to perfection with aromatic spices, served in warm pita bread for a delicious Middle Eastern treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 4 pita breads
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine garlic, yogurt, olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and nicely charred.
  4. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips.
  5. Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet.
  6. Assemble shawarma by placing sliced chicken on pita, then top with cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley, and drizzle with tahini or garlic sauce if desired.
  7. Roll up the pita and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad.