Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and brings the family together, look no further than this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma! This recipe is a favorite in my home, not just for its incredible taste but also for how easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want a comforting meal after a long day, this chicken shawarma fits the bill perfectly.

The warm spices combined with tender chicken create an inviting aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it in a wrap, serve it over rice, or load it up with fresh veggies. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of active time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The warm spices are mild yet flavorful, making it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for maximum flavor and minimal fuss when you’re ready to cook.
• Customizable Toppings: Everyone can personalize their shawarma with toppings like fresh veggies or cheese for a fun meal experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of spices and yogurt creates a marinade that makes the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful.

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

One of the best things about this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or include harissa paste for an extra kick.
• Change up the marinade: Experiment with different herbs like dill or mint in place of parsley for garnish.
• Serve differently: Try serving the shawarma over rice or in salad bowls instead of pita for a lighter option.

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, garlic, and all those delightful spices. This step is crucial because marinating not only infuses flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy during cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to your marinade mix. Coat them thoroughly so every piece gets that amazing flavor. Cover your bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least two hours—overnight is even better if you have time!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each side of the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until fully cooked through and slightly charred. This caramelization adds depth to every bite!

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let your chicken rest for about five minutes before slicing thinly. This resting time allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Now it’s time to assemble! Serve your chicken in warm pita bread with fresh veggies, parsley, and any toppings you desire.

Enjoy sharing this delicious Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma—it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Making delicious Middle Eastern chicken shawarma is all about the details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor significantly, as the spices have more time to penetrate the meat, making it tender and juicy.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This guarantees safety while keeping the meat moist.

• Opt for High Heat Cooking: Cooking over medium-high heat helps achieve that beautiful char on the chicken, which adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile and mimics traditional shawarma cooking methods.

• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more succulent slices when you serve them.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels or add your favorite spices. Personalizing your marinade can create a unique twist that suits your taste preferences!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving chicken shawarma is all about creating a vibrant and inviting presentation. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adding fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a refreshing flavor that complements the spiced chicken beautifully.

• Squeeze of Lemon: A fresh squeeze of lemon juice right before serving enhances all the flavors and adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and mint offers a bright and tangy contrast to the savory shawarma. It’s light yet filling!

• Hummus: Creamy hummus pairs wonderfully with shawarma. It can be used as a dip for vegetables or pita bread, adding an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to your meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant provide a hearty and nutritious side. Their caramelized sweetness complements the spices in the shawarma perfectly.

• Fattoush Salad: A vibrant mix of greens, tomatoes, radishes, and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy sumac dressing makes for an exciting side that’s both crunchy and refreshing.

Enjoy preparing this delightful Middle Eastern chicken shawarma! Each bite promises a burst of flavors that will leave everyone at your table asking for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, homemade flavors throughout the week. You can marinate the chicken in advance and store leftovers efficiently for quick meals.

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 fresh vegetables and toppings separate to maintain their freshness.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cool down completely.
• Slice the chicken and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Yes! While boneless, skinless thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can also use boneless breasts. Just be mindful that they may cook faster and require careful monitoring to prevent drying out.

How spicy is this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper used. For a milder flavor, start with less cayenne, and taste as you go!

Can I make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma ahead of time for a gathering?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken ahead of time, cook it just before serving, and set up a shawarma bar with fresh veggies and toppings. It’s perfect for entertaining!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of the Middle East. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, this dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!

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