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Chicken Shawarma

This Chicken Shawarma recipe brings Middle Eastern flavors to your home with tender, spiced chicken. Serve it in pita bread with fresh vegetables and a tangy garlic sauce for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 bowl
  • 1 whisk or fork
  • 1 skillet or grill pan
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 juice of lemon
  • 4 pieces pita breads
  • 1 cup lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cup cucumbers, diced
  • 1/2 cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  • Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  • Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
  • Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
  • To assemble, take a pita bread and layer it with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and sliced chicken. Drizzle with tahini or garlic sauce.
  • Wrap the pita around the fillings and serve immediately.
  • For extra authenticity, consider adding pickles or spicy fries in the pita.
  • You can marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper flavor.
  • This chicken shawarma can also be served as a salad by omitting the pita.

Notes

For extra authenticity, consider adding pickles or spicy fries in the pita.
You can marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper flavor.
This chicken shawarma can also be served as a salad by omitting the pita.