Name: Savory Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce for Easy Home Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 405 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 2 tsp Ground Cumin; 2 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Turmeric; 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 1 tsp Ground Coriander; 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper; 1 tsp Salt; 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced); 1 tbsp Juice of 1 Lemon; 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tbsp Additional Garlic (grated or minced); 1 tbsp Lemon Juice; 1 pinch Salt

As the sun sets, the air fills with savory scents that transport me straight to bustling Middle Eastern markets. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a head-turning favorite: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. This vibrant dish combines succulent, marinated chicken with an addictive, creamy garlic sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. The best part? It’s not just delicious; it’s also quick to whip up and versatile enough to fit into any meal plan—whether you’re making fresh wraps, hearty rice bowls, or crisp salads. Ready to treat your taste buds and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!

Why is Chicken Shawarma a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavors: The bold and rich spices in this Chicken Shawarma will awaken your taste buds, offering a memorable experience that rivals any restaurant dish.
Quick Preparation: With just a bit of marinating time, this dish comes together effortlessly, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy the flavorful chicken in wraps, rice bowls, or salads, allowing you to customize your meal according to your mood!
Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe aligns beautifully with a balanced diet, especially when paired with fresh vegetables.
Crowd-Pleaser: Your loved ones will be begging for seconds, making it the ideal dish for family dinners or entertaining guests. For more delicious ideas, check out my Butter Chicken Comfort for a different spin on hearty flavors!

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The star of this dish, these thighs ensure tenderness and moisture; you can use chicken breasts if you’re careful not to overcook them.
• Olive Oil – This ingredient adds essential moisture and helps achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
• Ground Cumin – This spice adds warm, earthy notes that are iconic to shawarma.
• Paprika – Offers a smoky sweetness that complements the spices nicely.
• Turmeric – Not only this adds color but also a subtle warmth to the flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon – Just a pinch enhances the dish’s complexity; it’s a game-changer!
• Ground Coriander – This spice contributes a citrusy undertone, enriching the shawarma.
• Ground Black Pepper and Salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Garlic Cloves (minced) – Pungency from garlic elevates the marinade, making it unforgettable.
• Juice of 1 Lemon – Fresh lemon juice tenderizes the meat and brightens the flavor.

For the Garlic Sauce
• Plain Greek Yogurt – Forms the creamy base of the garlic sauce, adding rich texture and tang.
• Mayonnaise – Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce, perfectly balancing the tangy yogurt.
• Additional Garlic (grated or minced) – Intensifies the garlic flavor, making it truly addictive.
• Lemon Juice and Salt – Together, they create a balance of flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a journey of flavors from your kitchen to your table. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, ground cinnamon, ground coriander, black pepper, salt, minced garlic, and the juice of one lemon. Ensure all spices are well combined, creating a fragrant marinade that will infuse our chicken shawarma with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade, turning them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a zip-top bag, squeezing out excess air. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for maximum tenderness.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Preheat your grill pan or oven to medium-high heat (about 425°F). If using a grill, cook the marinated chicken thighs for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For oven-roasting, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping once for even cooking.

Step 4: Rest Chicken
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips to prepare for serving in wraps or bowls.

Step 5: Make Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, grated garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well-blended. The garlic sauce should be creamy and tangy, offering a perfect complement to the savory chicken shawarma. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve
To serve your delicious chicken shawarma, take warm pita or flatbread and layer on the sliced chicken. Add fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, or cucumbers, and generously drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. Enjoy this delightful dish as a wrap, in a rice bowl, or alongside a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors have ample time to infuse. Simply whisk together the marinade and coat the chicken, covering it tightly before refrigerating. Additionally, the garlic sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just whisk it together and refrigerate in an airtight container for maximum freshness. This way, when you’re ready to cook, simply grill or roast the marinated chicken, slice it, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready to serve in no time—all while keeping the flavors just as delightful!

What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Indulging in Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce can be transformed into a complete feast that tantalizes the senses.

Creamy Hummus: This rich dip adds a nutty flavor, creating a wonderful contrast to the spices in the shawarma. Serve it alongside warm pita for a delightful appetizer.
Tangy Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat, this salad brings a bright, zesty element that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and spices, roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring sweetness and a comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Cooling and light, this salad features crunchy cucumbers and a yogurt dressing, balancing the heat of the shawarma and enhancing your meal’s freshness.
Warm Flatbreads: Soft, warm flatbreads or pita offer the perfect vehicle for your chicken shawarma, allowing you to create wraps filled with all your favorite toppings.
Minted Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, this drink not only quenches your thirst but also complements the flavors in your shawarma while adding an invigorating touch to the meal.
Baklava: End your feast on a sweet note with this flaky, honey-drizzled dessert. The rich layers beautifully balance the savory fare, creating a satisfying conclusion to your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This helps retain juiciness and texture.

Garlic Sauce: The garlic sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and is best served cold or at room temperature.

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this Chicken Shawarma uniquely yours with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a creamy sauce that’s dairy-free, while still keeping the flavors intact!
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for that zesty heat. It’ll elevate your shawarma experience and wake up your taste buds!
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tempeh or roasted chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian delight that packs in flavor and protein.
Grain Bowl Base: Serve your Chicken Shawarma over quinoa or farro for a hearty grain bowl, infusing your meal with additional texture and nutrition.
Extra Herbiness: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro directly into the garlic sauce for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite and celebrates freshness.
Sweetness Balance: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup in your marinade for a hint of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory spices.
Middle Eastern Zaatar: Sprinkle za’atar over the chicken before grilling to add a nutty, herbaceous flavor that beautifully complements the shawarma spices.
Garlic Lover’s Dream: Increase the amount of grated garlic in the sauce for those who can’t get enough of that rich, pungent flavor; it’s sure to make your meal unforgettable.

This Chicken Shawarma is so versatile, and if you’re interested in exploring other delightful chicken dishes, be sure to check out my Chicken Enchiladas Sauce or try the vibrantly spiced Japanese Katsu Sauce next!

Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma

Perfect Marinade Time: Longer marination (1-8 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness, so don’t rush this vital step for unforgettable chicken shawarma.
Watch the Cooking: Keep a close eye on cooking times, especially with chicken breasts; overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for juicy, tender pieces!
Garlic Sauce Magic: Prepare the garlic sauce a day ahead—letting it sit allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enriching the overall taste.
Spice It Up: If you crave heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
Rest Before Slicing: Always let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking; this ensures juices are retained, leading to a luscious shawarma experience.

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Shawarma?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and juiciness. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be cautious to avoid overcooking, as they can dry out more easily without proper marination.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Very! To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. When grilling, aim for a golden-brown exterior with juices running clear. If you cut into the chicken, it should not be pink inside.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I often prepare the garlic sauce a day in advance. Making it ahead gives the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a richer taste. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!

How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
For best results, store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, it retains its flavor and texture. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!

Can I freeze the chicken after marinating instead of cooking it first?
Yes, you can! Marinate the chicken as directed, then place it in a zip-top bag and freeze it. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even further as it marinates.

Is this Chicken Shawarma suitable for those with allergies?
Very! This recipe can be adjusted for food allergies; for example, if you’re gluten-sensitive, skip the pita and serve the chicken over rice or a salad. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens in the yogurt and mayonnaise, and feel free to substitute with allergy-friendly alternatives if needed.