Shawarma

Shawarma

This delightful Shawarma recipe features juicy, spice-infused chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing yogurt sauce. It's perfect for a flavorful family meal or a fun gathering with friends.

Chicken

Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

10 min

Servings

6

Shawarma, a beloved Middle Eastern street food, is renowned for its tender marinated meat and vibrant blend of spices. Traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, this home-friendly version uses a grill or stovetop method to achieve a smoky, charred exterior with juicy, aromatic chicken inside. The marinade, rich with coriander, cumin, cardamom, cayenne, and paprika, imparts a warm, complex flavor profile that tantalizes the senses. Paired with a cool, creamy Greek yogurt sauce infused with garlic and lemon, the dish strikes a beautiful balance between spice and refreshment. The inclusion of fresh lettuce and tomato, along with soft pita bread, creates the perfect handheld wrap experience, making it versatile for casual lunches or festive dinners. Whether served as a platter or rolled into wraps, this Shawarma recipe invites you to savor a taste of Middle Eastern culinary tradition in your own home. It pairs wonderfully with crisp salads or pickled vegetables, and a glass of chilled white wine or mint tea enhances the meal's vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg Chicken Thighs
  • 1 tb Coriander
  • 1 tb Cumin
  • 1 tb Cardamom
  • 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 2 tsp Paprika
  • 2 tb Lemon Juice
  • 3 tb Olive Oil
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt
  • 1 Garlic Clove
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • Splash Lemon Juice
  • Sliced Lettuce
  • Sliced Tomato
  • 6 Pita Bread

Instructions

Begin by combining all the marinade ingredients—coriander, cumin, cardamom, cayenne pepper, paprika, lemon juice, and olive oil—in a large ziplock bag or a spacious bowl. Add the chicken thighs, using your hands to thoroughly massage the marinade into each piece, ensuring every nook is coated with the fragrant spice blend. If using a ziplock bag, seal it tight and gently massage again to evenly disperse the flavors. For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate overnight or up to 24 hours. This resting time lets the spices deeply infuse the meat, yielding tender and flavorful results that truly shine. While the chicken marinates, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, minced garlic, cumin, and a splash of lemon juice in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate; this cool, tangy sauce will complement the spiced chicken beautifully and can be stored for up to three days. When ready to cook, preheat your grill, BBQ, or a heavy-based pan over medium-high heat. Thanks to the oil in the marinade and the natural fat in chicken thighs, additional oil is usually unnecessary. However, if you’re concerned about sticking, lightly oil your cooking surface for peace of mind. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the hot grill, cooking the first side for 4 to 5 minutes to develop a delicious charred crust. Then, flip and cook the second side for 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through. Remember, the second side requires less time as the chicken continues cooking from residual heat. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes—this step helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist. To serve, slice the rested chicken and arrange it on a platter alongside the fresh flatbreads, crisp salad of lettuce and tomato, and the chilled yogurt sauce. For a fun handheld option, spread some yogurt sauce onto a pita bread, top with lettuce, tomato, and chicken slices, then roll it up tightly. Enjoy this exciting mix of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing at any casual meal or gathering.

Quick Info

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6

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