Spread the love

Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe to Savor

Growing up, my weekends were often colored by the aromas wafting from the kitchen, as my family gathered to share meals that brought us closer together. One of my fondest memories is of my father’s legendary Chicken Shawarma. The marinated chicken’s savory aroma mingling with the punch of garlic sauce created an irresistible symphony that made our mouths water in anticipation. The way this dish combined layers of spices, perfectly roasted chicken, and a creamy garlic sauce made it a true family favorite.

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a portal to those cherished memories. Each bite is a comforting reminder of love, laughter, and sharing meals with family, making it a special treasure in our household.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not just a quick and easy recipe; it’s a delightful explosion of flavor that is guaranteed to impress. Made with juicy marinated chicken that cooks to perfection, it’s a healthier option for busy weeknights, yet satisfying enough for special occasions.

What sets this recipe apart is the homemade garlic sauce – creamy, zesty, and utterly addictive. You’ll find it hard to resist dipping your chicken, pita, or veggies into this irresistible sauce. The combination of convenience, flavor, and warmth makes this dish a must-try for everyone, and I promise it will earn a spot on your regular rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 lemons
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Sauce

1 cup plain yogurt (Greek works best for creaminess)
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving

Pita bread or flatbreads
Sliced fresh vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, onions)
Pickles (optional)

Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor. If you can’t find key spices, you can substitute with general spice blends, though they might not have the same depth.

How to make Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce to Savor

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken marinates, mix the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a small dish. Adjust salt to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). If using an oven, line a baking sheet with foil. Arrange the marinated chicken on the grill or baking sheet. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful char marks. If using an oven, bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Remove chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips. This step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Warm the pita bread or flatbreads. Place the sliced chicken on each piece, drizzle generously with garlic sauce, and top with sliced vegetables and pickles if desired. Roll or fold the pita and enjoy!

Tips & Recipe Variations

Chicken Options: You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts if preferred, although they may require less cooking time.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, try using marinated portobello mushrooms or grilled eggplant instead of chicken.
Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken a day in advance for deeper flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Add Crunch: Toss in some crunchy veggies like shredded cabbage or carrots for added texture in your shawarma.

How to Serve

This Chicken Shawarma pairs perfectly with a side of tabbouleh, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. For a refreshing drink, enjoy it with a cucumber mint lemonade.

Presentation tip: Serve the shawarma on a platter with vibrant vegetables arranged around the chicken. Drizzle a little extra garlic sauce on top and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and prep the garlic sauce to save time.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, cooked chicken shawarma can be frozen. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container, and it’ll last for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If yogurt isn’t available, high-quality sour cream works well too!

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken and let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?

Yes! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms for a vegetarian option, and use a dairy-free yogurt for the garlic sauce.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe is a beautiful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures, guaranteed to bring warmth to any meal. As you gather around to enjoy this delicious dish, remember that cooking is as much about sharing experiences as it is about flavors. I invite you to try this recipe, share your results, and bask in the joy of savoring each bite together.

“This Chicken Shawarma recipe changed my weeknight meals forever! The flavors are out of this world, and everyone in my family couldn’t get enough. The garlic sauce is truly a game-changer!” – Laura M.