Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

If you’re looking for a delicious meal that brings the vibrant flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen, this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma is the perfect recipe. It’s a family favorite in our house! The tender, spiced chicken served in warm pita with fresh veggies makes for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Whether you’re hosting a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

What I love most about this shawarma is how easy it is to prepare. With just a bit of marinating time, you can create an incredibly flavorful dish that feels special without taking all day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps, this recipe doesn’t require any special skills.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy building their own shawarma wraps.
• Make-ahead option: Marinate the chicken the night before for extra flavor and convenience!
• Customizable toppings: Everyone can add their favorite toppings for a personal touch.
• Delicious leftovers: Enjoy it as a lunch wrap or salad topping the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma. You might already have many of these in your pantry!

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

This recipe is flexible and allows you to get creative! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken breast or even turkey if you prefer.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute tofu or chickpeas as the main protein for a plant-based version.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with other spices like sumac or even curry powder for a unique twist.
• Add more veggies: Load your shawarma with grilled peppers, onions, or even roasted eggplant.

How to Make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together your olive oil, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all those wonderful spices. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it juicy while cooking!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs to the marinade and coat them well. It’s important to let them sit for at least 2 hours in the fridge—overnight is even better! This step allows all those delicious flavors to soak into every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side will give you beautifully charred chicken that’s cooked through. Letting it rest afterward ensures that all those juices stay locked in.

Step 4: Assemble Your Shawarma

Slice your rested chicken thinly and serve it wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and chopped parsley. Don’t forget to add any optional toppings you love! This step makes it fun and interactive—everyone can build their perfect wrap.

With this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe in hand, you’ll be ready to share a delicious meal that everyone will adore! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Making the perfect chicken shawarma at home is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of your marinade, making your chicken shawarma more aromatic and vibrant.

• Marinate longer for better flavor: While 2 hours is the minimum, letting the chicken marinate overnight allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• Cook over high heat: Grilling or cooking on medium-high heat gives the chicken a beautiful char and seals in the juices, keeping it tender and juicy.

• Let it rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing helps retain moisture, ensuring each bite is succulent.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like tahini sauce, hummus, or even a drizzle of spicy harissa for an added kick!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Serving chicken shawarma can be as fun as making it! With a few simple additions, you can create a delightful meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to your shawarma wraps.
• Sliced radishes: Thinly sliced radishes not only add crunch but also provide a peppery contrast that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside lets everyone squeeze fresh juice over their wraps for an extra zing!

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, mint, and lemon juice is deliciously light and pairs perfectly with savory shawarma.
• Hummus: Creamy hummus made from blended chickpeas is a classic Middle Eastern dip that complements the flavors of shawarma beautifully. Serve with pita chips or fresh veggies.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots—adds both color and a healthy twist to your meal.
• Fattoush salad: This vibrant salad features mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy sumac dressing, providing a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.

With these serving ideas and tips in mind, your Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma will surely impress everyone at the table! Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it easy to whip up a delicious meal during a busy week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that fresh vegetables and toppings are stored separately to maintain their freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight prior to reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep them juicy!

How long should I marinate my chicken for the best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken thighs for at least 2 hours. However, letting them sit overnight will enhance the taste even more!

Can I make Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma without yogurt?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute yogurt with additional olive oil or use a non-dairy yogurt alternative.

What toppings do you recommend for Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?

Fresh parsley, cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions, and feta cheese make excellent toppings. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma as much as I do! It’s not just about the flavors; it’s also about sharing a wonderful meal with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!