Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken shawarma recipe uses a simple spice mix and olive oil to make the chicken tasty and juicy. The spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon—give warm, familiar flavors that match the garlic sauce well. The quick grill or skillet cook keeps the meat tender and gives a nice char on the outside. If you like other garlic-chicken dishes, you can also check a similar idea like cheesy chicken garlic wraps for more simple ways to serve garlic chicken.

Chicken shawarma is an easy, fast meal you can make at home. The garlic sauce makes the sandwich rich and bright. You can make the chicken ahead and warm it later. If you want a meal with a garlic sauce and veggies, try a related recipe for grilled chicken broccoli bowls with creamy garlic sauce to get new meal ideas.

Why you should try this recipe

• It is quick with simple steps.
• It uses easy pantry spices.
• It makes a tasty family meal or quick lunch.
• You can change the veggies or sauce to suit your taste.

How to make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Ingredients :

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, Salt and pepper to taste, 4 pita breads, 1 cup garlic sauce, Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers) for serving

Equipments Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Grill or skillet (non-stick or cast iron)
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil with cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat well. Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
4. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing it thinly.
5. Serve the sliced chicken in pita bread with garlic sauce and fresh vegetables.

How to serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Warm the pita slightly. Slice the cooked chicken thin and place it in the pita. Add a spoon of garlic sauce and fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. Fold or wrap and eat while warm. You can also serve with fries, rice, or a simple salad.

How to store Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Store cooked, sliced chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep the garlic sauce separate in its own container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat chicken in a skillet or oven at low heat to keep it moist. Do not freeze the pita with fillings; freeze plain cooked chicken up to 2 months.

Tips & Tricks

• Marinate longer (overnight) for more flavor.
• Use thighs for juicier meat; breasts will be leaner but can dry out.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan or grill; cook in batches for even sear.
• Let the meat rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Warm pita briefly on the grill or in a pan for best texture.
• For a milder garlic sauce, mix it with plain yogurt.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast or turkey strips.
• Use yogurt in the marinade for extra tender meat.
• Replace pita with flatbread, wraps, or rice bowls.
• Add pickled vegetables or pickles for a tangy bite.
• Make it spicy by adding cayenne or chili flakes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes. Slice breast thinner and watch the cook time so it does not dry out.

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: At least 1 hour. Overnight gives the best flavor.

Q: Can I make the garlic sauce at home?
A: Yes. A simple sauce mixes garlic, oil, lemon juice, and a little salt. Or use store-bought for speed.

Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Cook and slice the chicken, store separately from sauce and bread, and assemble when ready.

Q: Can I grill the chicken outdoors?
A: Yes. Grill on medium-high heat the same way, turning once until cooked.

Conclusion

This chicken shawarma is simple and tasty. It is a great weeknight meal and easy to change to your liking. For another take on chicken shawarma with garlic sauce, see Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce – Lite Cravings. For a grilled version with sides, try Grilled Chicken Shawarma with Golden Butter Fries and Garlic Sauce.

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