Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a delightful way to bring vibrant Middle Eastern flavors into your home. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe combines tender, marinated chicken with a creamy garlic sauce that enhances every bite. Its versatility allows you to serve it in warm pita, over rice, or alongside fresh veggies, making it a customizable meal for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Shawarma:
• For the Garlic Sauce:
• How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Pan
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
• Step 5: Serve Your Dish
• How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• In Pita Bread
• Over Rice
• With Fresh Vegetables
• As a Salad
• With Pickled Turnips
• How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• Reheating Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What spices are used in Chicken Shawarma?
• Can I use different meats for shawarma?
• How do I customize my Chicken Shawarma wrap?
• What should I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavors: The marinade features warm spices that create an authentic taste reminiscent of traditional shawarma.
• Customizable Serving Options: Enjoy this dish in various ways—served in pita wraps, over rice, or accompanied by salads and veggies.
• Family-Friendly Meal: The creamy garlic sauce makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made from fresh ingredients, this recipe is a wholesome choice for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or non-stick pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or non-stick pan: Essential for achieving that perfect sear on the chicken while preventing sticking during cooking.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly when preparing the garlic sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma:

• 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

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt, to taste

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Add your chicken strips to the marinade. Ensure they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Pan

Preheat a grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place your marinated chicken strips on the heated grill or pan. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Serve your delicious chicken shawarma in warm pita bread or on a plate. Top generously with garlic sauce and add your favorite accompaniments like fresh vegetables or pickled turnips for extra flavor!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Serving Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce can be a delightful experience that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Whether you prefer it in a wrap or on a plate, there are many ways to enjoy this dish.

In Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread makes an excellent vessel for chicken shawarma. Fill it with sliced chicken and drizzle with garlic sauce for a tasty wrap.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Pair it with garlic sauce and fresh herbs for added flavor.

With Fresh Vegetables

• A side of crunchy vegetables adds freshness. Consider cucumbers, tomatoes, or bell peppers to complement the rich flavors of the shawarma.

As a Salad

• Transform your chicken shawarma into a salad by adding greens like lettuce and arugula. Top it with garlic sauce for a refreshing twist.

With Pickled Turnips

• Pickled turnips add a tangy crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. They provide an authentic Middle Eastern touch to your meal.

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How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

To achieve the best Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, consider these tips to enhance your cooking process and flavor.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices can significantly elevate the dish’s flavor. Check that your spices are not expired for maximum impact.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices and garlic to penetrate well.

• Cook at High Heat: Cooking at medium-high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken, giving it that signature charred taste.

• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, keeping it moist and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Shawarma can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that go well together.

1. Tabbouleh: This fresh parsley salad adds brightness and complements the shawarma nicely.
2. Hummus: Creamy hummus is perfect for dipping pita or veggies alongside your main dish.
3. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf provides a hearty base that balances the savory chicken.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and texture to your meal.
5. Falafel: These crispy chickpea balls can serve as an additional protein option that’s both delicious and filling.
6. Baba Ganoush: This smoky eggplant dip offers a rich contrast to the flavors of the shawarma.
7. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A refreshing yogurt-based salad cools down the spice while adding creaminess.
8. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites bring another layer of Middle Eastern flavor to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the most of your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, be mindful of these common mistakes that can affect flavor and texture.

• Marinade Timing: Skipping the marinating time can lead to bland chicken. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

• Incorrect Cooking Temperature: Cooking the chicken at too high a temperature can result in burnt outsides and undercooked insides. Aim for medium-high heat to achieve a perfect cook.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Not all ingredients are created equal. Invest in fresh spices and quality chicken for a more authentic taste.

• Forgetting to Rest the Chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can make it dry. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the pan at once can lower the cooking temperature. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Place cooled chicken and garlic sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover chicken with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce:

What spices are used in Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken shawarma typically includes spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, and cinnamon, which give it a rich flavor profile.

Can I use different meats for shawarma?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken, you can also use lamb, beef, or even turkey for delicious variations of shawarma.

How do I customize my Chicken Shawarma wrap?

Feel free to add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickled vegetables to personalize your shawarma wrap according to your taste preferences!

What should I serve with Chicken Shawarma?

Serve this dish with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad. It pairs wonderfully with hummus or tabbouleh as sides too!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not only easy to make but also packed with vibrant flavors that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you enjoy it in a wrap or on a plate with veggies, its customizable nature makes it perfect for any meal. Try experimenting with different toppings and sides to find your favorite combination!