Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe (Easy & Delicious)

Chicken Shawarma is one of the most beloved Middle Eastern dishes, renowned for its aromatic spices, tender marinated meat, and flavorful garlic sauce. This homemade version brings the same restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen without the need for a vertical rotisserie. Perfect for wraps, bowls, or simply served over rice, this recipe is both easy and delicious.

What makes chicken shawarma special is the unique blend of spices that gives it its signature warmth and depth. Cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, and cinnamon all work together to create a balanced, fragrant flavor profile. When paired with tender chicken and a creamy garlic sauce, every bite feels both exotic and comforting.

This guide will walk you step by step through preparing the chicken, marinating it, and cooking it perfectly. You’ll also learn how to make a simple garlic sauce to complete the dish. Tips for serving, storage, and answers to frequently asked questions are included to help you master this classic.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Serving Suggestions

Warm pita bread or flatbreads
Chopped tomatoes and cucumbers
Pickles
Fresh parsley
Tahini or extra garlic sauce

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Cutting the chicken into strips ensures quick and even cooking while maximizing the surface area for the spices to infuse.

Olive oil helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly and prevents sticking during cooking.

The spice blend is essential. Ground cumin adds earthiness, paprika gives a mild smokiness, turmeric provides subtle warmth and vibrant color, coriander adds citrusy notes, and cinnamon adds depth and a hint of sweetness. Garlic and lemon juice brighten and enhance the flavors.

Salt and pepper are crucial for balancing and bringing out all the spices.

Preparing the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together to create a smooth marinade.

Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more aromatic and tender it will become.

Cooking the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil if necessary to prevent sticking.

Once hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly caramelized on the edges. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness.

For extra flavor, you can broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes after pan-cooking to create a slightly crisp exterior reminiscent of traditional shawarma.

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Making the Garlic Sauce

A classic garlic sauce, or toum, complements shawarma perfectly. While there are many variations, a simple version can be made with:

1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Adjust garlic and lemon to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken shawarma can be served in multiple ways:

• Shawarma Wraps: Warm pita bread, spread with garlic sauce, layer chicken strips, and add chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, and parsley. Roll up and serve.
• Shawarma Bowls: Serve the chicken over rice or quinoa with garlic sauce and fresh vegetables.
• Simple Plate: Arrange chicken on a platter with sides of vegetables, flatbread, and sauce for a shared family-style meal.

Flavor and Texture Balance

Shawarma thrives on contrast. The tender, spiced chicken pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy garlic sauce. Crisp vegetables or pickles add crunch and freshness, while flatbread or rice provides a neutral base to soak up all the flavors.

The spice blend is aromatic but not overwhelmingly hot, making it approachable for most palates. Garlic sauce adds richness and tang, balancing the spices perfectly.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked chicken should be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Leftover garlic sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or oven to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent dryness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the marination: Marinating is essential to infuse flavor and ensure tender chicken.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• Overcooking: Chicken cooks quickly; monitor it closely to prevent dryness.
• Not resting the chicken: Allow a few minutes for juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes. Chicken breasts work fine, though thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is sufficient, but up to 4 hours is recommended for deeper flavor.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the sauce up to 1–2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.

Is shawarma spicy?

This recipe has aromatic spices but is not overly spicy. You can adjust by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if desired.

Can I bake or grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or grill for 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through.

Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that brings Middle Eastern flavors into your home kitchen. With juicy, aromatic chicken and a creamy garlic sauce, it’s perfect for wraps, bowls, or casual family dinners. By following this recipe, you can enjoy the rich, savory taste of shawarma anytime without needing specialized equipment.

Whether served with fresh vegetables, rice, or flatbreads, this dish promises a flavorful, comforting experience that is both approachable and impressive.

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