Chicken Shawarma

Flavorful Middle Eastern Spiced Chicken!

Chicken Shawarma is a delicious Middle Eastern dish known for its bold flavors and tender, marinated meat. The chicken is typically marinated in a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic, then slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie or grilled to perfection. This cooking method allows the meat to become juicy and infused with all the spices, creating a mouthwatering experience. Served in a warm pita or flatbread, it’s often topped with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, along with a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce or tangy yogurt. Whether enjoyed in a wrap, on a platter, or as part of a meze, Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Chicken Shawarma Ingredients

Ingredients for the Marinade
  • 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
  • The juice of ½ lemon
  • 2 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin
  • ¼ teaspooon Cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped
Other Ingredients
  • 1 pound Boneless chicken thighs, chopped
  • ½ Tablespoon Vegetable Oil

How to Make the Best Chicken Shawarma

  1. Start by mixing all ingredients for the marinade into a container Add the chicken, mix it well and close the container. Keep it in the fridge overnight.
  2. In a medium-high pan, add the oil. Once it is hot, add the chicken and spread it well over the pan. Do not need to stir it, let the chicken cook for 4 minutes.
  3. Turn the chicken around and cook for another 3 minutes.
  4. Serve the chicken with a side of pita bread, salad, tomatoes and yogurt sauce.

Recipe Tips

  1. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to fully absorb the spices and flavors.
  2. Opt for boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result.
  3. Slice the chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking, whether grilling or roasting.
  4. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  5. Pair the chicken with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions when serving. A side of yogurt sauce also pairs great.

Other Mediterranean Recipes


Chicken Shawarma

Flavorful Middle Eastern Spiced Chicken!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time7 minutes
Marinade12 hours
Total Time12 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Turkish
Keyword: Chicken Shawarma
Servings: 2 people

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Marinade

  • 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
  • The juice of ½ lemon
  • 2 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin
  • ¼ teaspooon Cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped

Other Ingredients

  • 1 pound Boneless chicken thighs, chopped
  • ½ Tablespoon Vegetable Oil

Instructions

  • Start by mixing all ingredients for the marinade into a container Add the chicken, mix it well and close the container. Keep it in the fridge overnight.
  • In a medium-high pan, add the oil. Once it is hot, add the chicken and spread it well over the pan. Do not need to stir it, let the chicken cook for 4 minutes.
  • Turn the chicken around and cook for another 3 minutes.
  • Serve the chicken with a side of pita bread, salad, tomatoes or yogurt sauce.