If you have ever craved the vibrant, fragrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken marinated in a perfect blend of spices with a luscious, garlicky sauce that takes every bite to the next level. It’s the kind of meal that delights the senses and leaves you planning your next homemade shawarma night as soon as you finish. Whether tucked inside a warm pita or served atop a fresh salad, this recipe brings an authentic taste of shawarma right into your kitchen, no exotic trips needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the harmony between fresh, vibrant ingredients and well-balanced spices. Each one plays a vital role, from the citrusy brightness of lemon juice to the earthiness of cumin, ensuring your chicken shawarma is bursting with character and color.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breast, perfect for shawarma’s tender texture.
- Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and tang while gently tenderizing the chicken during marination.
- Lemon juice: Provides bright acidity that lifts the spices and flavors.
- Olive oil: Helps blend the marinade and keeps the chicken moist as it cooks.
- Fresh garlic: Packs a punch in both marinade and sauce for that irresistible savory depth.
- Ground cumin: Lends a warm, earthy tone classic to Middle Eastern dishes.
- Paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- Ground coriander: Adds a hint of citrusy spice to the mix.
- Turmeric: Gives the chicken its beautiful golden hue.
- Ground cinnamon: Introduces a gentle sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- Allspice: Provides complexity and a touch of warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the garlic sauce for richness and smooth texture.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: Bright green garnish adds freshness and contrast.
- Optional: Pickles, lettuce, pita or flatbread: For assembling your perfect shawarma wrap or plate.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
The magic starts by mixing together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a masterful blend of spices including cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. This marinade creates a flavor-packed bath that tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with those signature shawarma aromas.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Once your marinade is ready, add the chicken thighs and make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, but if you can leave it overnight, the flavors will deepen and the chicken will be extra tender. This step is absolutely worth the wait.
Step 3: Make Garlic Sauce
While the chicken soaks up those spices, whip up the creamy garlic sauce by combining mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Chill this in the fridge so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency that’s perfect for drizzling or dipping.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan until it’s sizzling hot and cook the marinated chicken about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Once done, let the chicken rest briefly—this locks in the juices—before slicing it into tender strips ready for assembly.
Step 5: Assemble Your Shawarma
Whether you prefer to pile the chicken in soft pita, toss it over fresh greens, or build a vibrant wrap, combine the sliced chicken with your garlic sauce, fresh herbs, and optional pickles and lettuce. Each bite bursting with layers of texture and flavor will remind you why the Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is such a beloved classic.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Bright, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro are essential to cutting through the rich spices and creamy sauce, bringing refreshing notes that elevate every mouthful. Add thinly sliced pickles for a tangy crunch that beautifully contrasts the tender chicken and smooth garlic sauce.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside simple, cooling sides such as crisp lettuce or a fresh tomato cucumber salad to balance the warm, spiced flavors. Warm pita bread or flatbreads are perfect for scooping and wrapping, making the meal casual yet utterly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation to new heights by layering your chicken shawarma on a grain bowl with fluffy rice or quinoa, drizzled liberally with creamy garlic sauce. Or transform it into a salad plate with colorful veggies and herbs scattered generously, turning humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy feast at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra chicken shawarma, store the sliced chicken and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and the sauce creamy without sogginess, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While the chicken tastes best fresh, you can freeze the marinated uncooked chicken in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw thoroughly and cook as usual. Avoid freezing the garlic sauce since it may separate and lose texture upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cooked chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to preserve moisture and flavor. Once warm, add fresh garlic sauce and your preferred garnishes to enjoy a quick yet authentic taste of your favorite Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast will work, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful after marinating and cooking, which is why they are preferred in this recipe.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 2 hours is ideal for flavor, but overnight marination will give you the most tender and deeply flavored results.
Is the garlic sauce spicy?
No, the garlic sauce is creamy and tangy with a gentle garlic punch, making it wonderfully balanced rather than spicy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just skip the pita or opt for gluten-free wraps, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free meal.
What’s the best way to store the garlic sauce?
Keep the garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe at home: the delicious aroma, the mix of spices, and that creamy sauce all come together to create an experience that’s both comforting and exciting. If you’ve been searching for a go-to recipe that’s easy, satisfying, and packed with authentic flavor, this dish is it. Trust me, once you try it, shawarma nights will become a beloved tradition in your kitchen.
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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 22 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Chicken Shawarma recipe featuring tender marinated chicken thighs cooked on the stovetop and served with a creamy garlic sauce. This dish is perfect for wraps, salads, or pita sandwiches, garnished with fresh herbs and pickles for authentic Middle Eastern taste.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
Garnishes and Serving
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: pickles, lettuce, pita bread or flatbread
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Make Garlic Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well until smooth. Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken thighs and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they are fully cooked through and have a beautiful golden-brown crust. Remove from heat, let rest a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- Assemble and Serve: Place sliced chicken into warmed pita bread or flatbreads or serve over a salad. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Add optional pickles and lettuce as desired for extra crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight boosts the flavor and tenderness.
- Use a grill pan for a smoky char or a regular skillet for convenience.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be prepared a day ahead to deepen the flavor.
- Serve with pickled vegetables and fresh greens for an authentic shawarma experience.
- Adjust spices according to taste preference.
