This easy chicken shawarma is packed with tasty spices and served with a creamy garlic sauce that makes each bite special. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering!
I love how simple it is to grill the chicken and whip up the sauce. Plus, it’s great to load up with all your favorite toppings. Who doesn’t love a little extra garlic? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. If you want, you can use chicken breasts instead. For a lighter option, turkey can also work well!
Spices: Cumin and coriander are key for that authentic shawarma taste. If you’re missing these, try using taco seasoning or curry powder as a substitute, but the flavor will change a bit.
Greek Yogurt: This is great for the creamy garlic sauce. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a vegan sour cream. They can give a similar texture!
Pita Bread: Pita is classic, but feel free to use other flatbreads or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb choice. Whole wheat pita is a healthier option to consider!
How Do You Cook Chicken for Shawarma Without a Grill?
You can easily make chicken shawarma without a grill by using your stovetop! Here’s how:
- Start by using a grill pan or a regular skillet. It should be preheated over medium-high heat to get those nice grill marks.
- Add a bit of oil and then the marinated chicken slices. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through.
- To get that crispy exterior, don’t overcrowd the pan; just cook in batches if needed!
A tip from me: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before slicing it into pieces!
Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced tomatoes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Pickles or pickled turnips (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken shawarma recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Including cook time, you’ll be ready to eat in about 1 hour. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if you want a kick), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade. Add the thinly sliced chicken and toss to coat all the pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—an hour or two gives even better flavor!
2. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if you like. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve—with this sauce, you won’t be disappointed!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken slices. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. If you’ve got a little caramelization going on, that’s perfect for flavor!
4. Warm the Pita:
In the same or a different pan, briefly warm the pita bread or flatbreads for a few seconds on each side so they’re soft and ready to hold your delicious filling.
5. Assemble Your Shawarma:
Spread a generous amount of creamy garlic sauce on each warmed pita. Add your perfectly cooked chicken shawarma, topped with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, chopped parsley, and any pickles you fancy. The more colorful, the better!
6. Roll and Serve:
Roll up the pita tightly, and here’s the best part—enjoy your homemade chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce immediately. It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, boneless chicken breasts work well too. For a spicy twist, you could also use cut-up chicken tenders!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or even a dash of chili powder to the marinade. You can also serve the shawarma with sliced jalapeños or a hot sauce of your choice for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. This actually helps enhance the flavors even more. Just remember to cook it thoroughly when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover cooked chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. The creamy garlic sauce can also be kept in the fridge for several days!
