Get ready to experience the ultimate flavor explosion with this Easy Chicken Shawarma recipe!
Now, if you've never tried Chicken Shawarma before, let me paint you a picture. Picture tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic spices, nestled in warm pita bread, and topped with tangy tzatziki sauce and crisp veggies. Are you drooling yet? Because I sure am! And let me tell you, this dish isn't just a favorite in the Middle East; it's taking the culinary world by storm!
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs because dark meat equals maximum flavor!
- Olive oil for that golden, crispy exterior
- Garlic cloves for that aromatic punch
- Lemon juice to add a zesty kick
- Ground cumin paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (for that authentic Shawarma spice blend!)
- Salt and pepper because seasoning is key!
- Pita bread the vessel for all that deliciousness
- Tzatziki sauce cool, creamy, and oh-so-delicious
- Sliced cucumbers tomatoes, and red onions (for that refreshing crunch)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they're well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they're cooked through and have a nice char.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- Warm up your pita bread on the grill for a minute or so on each side.
- To assemble, spread a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on each pita bread, top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
- Fold it all up, take a big bite, and prepare to be transported to flavor town!
Notes
Don't be afraid to get creative with your spice blend! Add a pinch more cayenne pepper if you like it spicy or a dash of sumac for a tangy twist.
If you're short on time, you can use store-bought Shawarma seasoning instead of making your own.
No grill? No problem! You can easily make this recipe in a skillet on the stove or even in the oven.
If you're short on time, you can use store-bought Shawarma seasoning instead of making your own.
No grill? No problem! You can easily make this recipe in a skillet on the stove or even in the oven.