Save This Chicken Shawarma recipe brings the rich flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen. Marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce wrapped in soft pita bread for an unforgettable meal.
The first time I made Chicken Shawarma at home, my family could not believe how authentic it tasted—restaurant quality right from our kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken thigh fillets: 2 lbs, boneless and skinless
- Lettuce: 3 cups, shredded
- Red onion: 1, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes: 4, sliced
- Pita bread: 8 pieces
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon juice: 3 tbsp
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Ground coriander: 2 tsp
- Ground cumin: 2 tsp
- Paprika: 2 tsp
- Salt: 2 tsp
- Ground allspice: 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Plain yogurt: 1 1/2 cups
- Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp
- Sriracha sauce: 1 tbsp, adjust to taste
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, allspice, and black pepper. Mix well then add the chicken thigh fillets and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine yogurt, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush grates with oil. Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through and charred. Let rest, then slice into strips.
- Assemble Shawarma:
- Warm pita bread on the grill or in the oven. Spread sauce onto each pita, top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and chicken slices. Drizzle with more sauce if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately wrapped or as open-faced sandwiches and enjoy!
Save Chicken Shawarma has become a requested favorite at our family gatherings, enjoyed by kids and adults alike with lots of laughter and second helpings.
Required Tools
Grill or grill pan, mixing bowls, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and gluten; always double-check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 600 calories, 30 g fat, 45 g carbohydrates, 40 g protein
Save This easy Chicken Shawarma is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and aroma. Serve with simple sides for a complete meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of chicken is best for shawarma?
Boneless, skinless thigh fillets are ideal for juicy and flavorful results when grilling for shawarma.
- → Can I use store-bought pita bread?
Yes, store-bought pita works well; just warm briefly on a grill or in the oven for best texture.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best flavor, marinate at least one hour, or refrigerate overnight for deeper infusion of spices.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Grilled vegetables or falafel can be substituted for chicken, keeping the process and condiments the same.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well?
A yogurt-based sauce with garlic and spices is perfect, but adding a spicy mayo or tahini elevates flavor.
- → How do I prevent dry chicken?
Avoid overcooking and rest the chicken briefly before slicing to retain juiciness after grilling.