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Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Chicken Shawarma

This chicken shawarma recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings together bold spices, tender chicken, and creamy sauces.
The marinade plays a key role in building deep, aromatic flavor while keeping the chicken juicy and satisfying.
With both yogurt and tahini sauces, the dish offers a balanced combination of tangy and rich elements.
It can be served in multiple ways, from wraps to bowls, making it suitable for different occasions.
Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s a reliable recipe for both everyday meals and special gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 354
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 Tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 Tbsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 Tbsp ground cardamom
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Yogurt Sauce
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp grated cucumber
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
Tahini Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp tahini paste
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp water
  • 1/2 small shallot minced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp parsley minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Pinch red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowls
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Large skillet or cast iron pan
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Add all marinade ingredients to a large mixing bowl and whisk until well combined. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly in the marinade.
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop fully.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine all the yogurt sauce ingredients and mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. In another bowl, mix together all the tahini sauce ingredients until well combined. Adjust consistency with water if needed and refrigerate.
  5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once hot, place the chicken in an even layer, cooking in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook the chicken until browned on one side, then turn and cook the other side until fully cooked through.
  7. Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely, and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  8. Slice the chicken into strips and serve with the prepared sauces.

Notes

Chicken shawarma is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable.
With its bold spices, juicy texture, and versatile serving options, it easily becomes a go-to meal for any day of the week.
Once you try it, it’s the kind of recipe that naturally becomes part of your regular rotation.