Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe features tender marinated chicken served with a creamy garlic sauce. The quick preparation time makes it accessible for busy cooks, while the robust spices and fresh ingredients ensure an authentic taste that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This chicken shawarma is ready in just one hour, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight meals.
• Flavor Explosion: A blend of warm spices and a creamy garlic sauce creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish in warm pita, over rice, or with fresh veggies to suit your preferences.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adjust the spices and toppings to cater to different tastes or dietary needs.
• Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with protein and made with fresh ingredients, this dish is a wholesome option for any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan or grill
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan or grill: Ensures the chicken cooks evenly without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix the marinade thoroughly with the chicken.
• Small mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing the garlic sauce separately, preventing flavor interference.
• Meat thermometer: Helps ensure your chicken reaches the proper internal temperature for safety.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma:
1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Sauce:
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon lemon juice
salt, to taste

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips to this mixture and coat them well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes; if you have more time, marinating overnight will enhance the flavor even further.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your non-stick pan or grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken strips onto the hot surface and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

Serve the sliced chicken in pita bread or on a plate. Drizzle generously with garlic sauce and accompany it with vegetables, pickled turnips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Serving Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is all about creativity and personal preference. You can enjoy this dish in various ways, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

In Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread is perfect for wrapping up the chicken and garlic sauce. Add fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for added crunch.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, drizzling the garlic sauce on top. This combination creates a hearty meal that’s filling and flavorful.

With Fresh Veggies

• Pair your shawarma with a side of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or a simple salad. This adds a refreshing touch to your meal.

As a Shawarma Wrap

• Roll your chicken and sauce in a large tortilla for an easy-to-eat shawarma wrap. It’s great for lunches or picnics!

With Pickled Turnips

• Include pickled turnips as a tangy side that complements the savory flavors of the chicken. Their crunchiness enhances the overall texture of the dish.

On a Salad

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken on top of mixed greens with garlic sauce as dressing. This makes for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors. If short on time, at least 30 minutes is essential.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that your chicken gets a nice char while staying juicy inside.

• Rest After Cooking: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in tender bites.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your garlic sauce and adjust salt or lemon juice according to your preference before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Shawarma enhances its Middle Eastern flavors. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Hummus: A creamy blend of chickpeas and tahini that’s perfect for dipping or spreading on pita.

2. Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice that adds brightness to your meal.

3. Fattoush Salad: A crunchy mix of greens and toasted pita chips dressed in sumac vinaigrette; it’s both delicious and texturally appealing.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth and sweetness to balance the spices in shawarma.

5. Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base for serving alongside your shawarma.

6. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant drizzled with olive oil provides an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic sauce.

7. French Fries: Crispy fries seasoned perfectly can be a fun addition that appeals to all ages when served alongside shawarma!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken shawarma at home is simple, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid for the best outcome.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Always allow at least 30 minutes for marination, or longer if possible.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long makes it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and let it rest before slicing.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old garlic can lessen the taste. Always check your ingredients for freshness to ensure vibrant flavors.

• Ignoring Sauce Proportions: Making too much or too little garlic sauce can throw off balance. Follow the recipe closely to achieve the right flavor ratio.

• Forgetting to Preheat: Skipping preheating your grill or pan might result in uneven cooking. Always heat your cooking surface to medium-high before adding chicken.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Freeze portions of chicken shawarma in freezer-safe bags.
• It can be kept for up to 3 months; just label them with the date.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chicken shawarma with garlic sauce that can help enhance your experience.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content.

How spicy is this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

This recipe is not spicy. However, you can add cayenne pepper or chili powder if you prefer a kick!

What sides pair well with Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

Serve it with rice, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that complements its rich flavors.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The garlic sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or serving it differently each time. Whether you enjoy it in pita bread, on rice, or as part of a salad, you’re sure to love this easy and satisfying dish!