Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the warmth of Middle Eastern flavors to your kitchen, this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is just what you need! This recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, this shawarma is sure to impress everyone at the table.

The beauty of this dish lies in its marinated chicken thighs, which soak up the aromatic spices and become tender and juicy when cooked. It’s perfect served in pita bread with fresh veggies, making it a delightful meal that feels both cozy and festive!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that tastes amazing.
• Family-Friendly: The delicious flavors and customizable toppings mean there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time, so it’s ready to cook whenever you are.
• Flavorful Leftovers: Enjoy the shawarma in wraps or salads for lunch the next day—it’s just as tasty!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up in pita bread with colorful veggies for a beautiful meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this delightful dish anytime. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Spice Marinade:

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade Liquid:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Pita bread
• Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers and tomatoes)
• Optional toppings (such as feta cheese or pickled onions)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Add different spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like sumac or harissa for a unique flavor profile.
• Change up the veggies: Use roasted bell peppers or shredded carrots for added color and crunch.
• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like your shawarma with an extra kick!

How to Make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all those lovely spices. This marinade is where all the magic happens! It infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors while keeping it moist during cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs into your marinade mixture. Ensure they are well-coated! Cover your bowl and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight if you can. This step allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each thigh for about 5–7 minutes per side until they are fully cooked through and have a nice char. This step not only gives great texture but also enhances those beautiful flavors from the marinade.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

After cooking, allow your chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly. This resting period helps keep all those tasty juices inside! Serve your sliced chicken in warm pita bread topped with fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes and sprinkle some parsley on top. Don’t forget your favorite optional toppings for an extra touch!

Enjoy every bite of this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma—it’s truly a dish made for sharing!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Making chicken shawarma at home can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure it’s bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked!

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier when cooked.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s fully cooked while remaining tender. This takes away any guesswork and guarantees perfect results every time.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences. Adding more cayenne pepper will give it a kick, while extra cinnamon can add warmth without heat.

• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

• Try Different Cooking Methods: While grilling is traditional, you can also bake or sauté the chicken if you prefer. Each method brings out different flavors and textures in the dish.

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving chicken shawarma is just as fun as making it! With vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, your plate can be a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Tahini sauce: Drizzling tahini over your shawarma gives it a creamy texture and nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
• Sliced lemons: A few lemon wedges on the side allow guests to add an extra burst of citrus juice if they desire.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, mint, and lemon juice offers a light contrast to the savory chicken.
• Hummus: Creamy hummus pairs perfectly with pita bread and serves as a great dip for fresh veggies.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add sweetness and depth to your meal.
• Fattoush salad: With crispy pita chips mixed with fresh greens, radishes, and pomegranate seeds, this salad complements the spices of the shawarma perfectly while adding crunch.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is a fantastic recipe for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its delicious flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover marinade and fresh vegetables stored separately.

Freezing

• If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the marinated chicken before cooking.
• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Reheating

• To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• If using frozen chicken, cook from frozen on low heat until fully cooked.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may help you with your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma journey!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs provide more flavor and moisture, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster.

How do I make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma spicy?

To add more heat to your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma, increase the cayenne pepper in the spice mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy sauce or condiment on the side.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of shawarma. Just follow the same marinating process!

What toppings work well with this shawarma?

Great options include fresh diced tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded lettuce, pickled onions, and a dollop of tahini sauce. You could also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with friends or family, and its vibrant flavors will surely impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings to make it truly yours. Happy cooking!