Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a taste of the Middle East, look no further than a delicious Chicken Shawarma. This flavorful dish is marinated in a blend of spices, roasted to perfection, and served with a creamy garlic sauce that takes it to the next level. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thinning)

For Serving:

  • Pita bread or flatbreads
  • Fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
  • Pickles
  • Fresh parsley or mint for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

  1. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. For a thinner sauce, add water, one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Set it aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or oven to about 400°F (200°C).
  2. If grilling, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using a pan or oven, place the chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.

Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma

  1. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
  2. Warm the pita or flatbreads slightly in the oven or on a skillet.
  3. To assemble, layer sliced chicken onto the bread, add fresh vegetables, pickles, and drizzle generously with garlic sauce.
  4. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

Enjoying homemade Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a simple yet rewarding experience. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. With its bold flavors and compelling aroma, it’ll transport you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Don’t forget to get creative with toppings and sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!