Description
Make the best homemade chicken shawarma with bold spices, juicy meat, and garlic yogurt sauce. A flavorful Middle Eastern classic!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 tomato, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- Fresh lettuce or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices.
- Add the chicken thighs, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for best flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Option 1: Stovetop Method
1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips. - Option 2: Oven Method
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Let the chicken rest, then slice into thin strips.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma Wraps
- Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave.
- Spread garlic yogurt sauce on the pita.
- Add sliced chicken, tomato, onion, cucumber, and lettuce.
- Wrap it up and enjoy!
Notes
- ✔️ Marinate Overnight – The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it gets.
- ✔️ Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicier than chicken breasts.
- ✔️ Try It on the Grill – Adds a smoky, authentic flavor.
- ✔️ Make It Low-Carb – Skip the pita and serve over salad or cauliflower rice.
Keywords: chicken shawarma, homemade shawarma, Middle Eastern chicken, garlic yogurt sauce, grilled chicken, shawarma wraps