There’s something irresistible about the aroma of Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce wafting through the air. Picture marinated chicken sizzling on the grill, mingling with spices that dance playfully in your nostrils while your taste buds start a conga line of excitement. The moment you bite into that tender chicken, bursting with flavors and wrapped in warm pita, it feels like a culinary hug from the Middle East.
I remember the first time I attempted to make Chicken Shawarma. I had friends over for dinner, and let me tell you they were skeptical. But once they took that first bite, their eyes lit up as if I had just revealed the secret to world peace It turned out to be a memorable evening filled with laughter, delicious bites, and a lot of “Can I have seconds?”
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is simple to prepare but tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant
- You can customize the toppings to fit any palate or occasion
- Its vibrant colors will impress anyone at the dinner table, making it perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve in wraps or as a salad topping
Friends still ask for the recipe every time we meet they just can’t get enough of that creamy garlic sauce
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 chicken breasts adjust according to your crowd size and appetite.
- Yogurt: Use plain yogurt for marinating it tenderizes the chicken while adding a tangy flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic kick use more if you’re feeling adventurous
- Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth opt for fresh ground for stronger flavor.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika is my go-to for that extra depth it elevates the dish remarkably.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade beautifully bottled just won’t cut it.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps keep everything juicy and flavorful don’t skimp on quality here
- Pita Bread: Essential for wrapping up all that goodness choose soft, fluffy options for best results.
- Fresh Veggies (Tomatoes, Cucumbers): These add crunch and freshness feel free to go wild with your favorites.
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: A base for creaminess opt for full-fat mayonnaise for rich flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Extra zing here enhances the sauce’s profile again, fresh is best
- Garlic Powder: For convenience without sacrificing taste mix this into your mayo blend.
- Salt & Pepper: Season generously to bring all flavors together nicely.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight if you want maximum flavor infusion.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Oven : If you’re grilling outdoors or using an oven, preheat to about 400°F (200°C). Get those flames dancing or that heat circulating both methods work wonders
Step 3: Cook the Chicken : Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until you see those beautiful char marks or bake in your oven until golden brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce : While you’re waiting on that glorious chicken to cook, whisk mayonnaise with lemon juice and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed this sauce is going to be your new best friend.
Step 5: Assemble Your Shawarma : Slice cooked chicken thinly against the grain. Spread some creamy garlic sauce on warm pita bread then layer sliced chicken along with diced tomatoes and cucumbers.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Creation : Wrap up your shawarma tightly like a sweet little present. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty before devouring every last bite
Creating Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce isn’t just about cooking it’s about bringing people together around food that warms their hearts So gather friends or family and dive into this delightful experience together
You Must Know
- This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce will impress your friends and family
- The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, making it a perfect dish for gatherings
- Plus, it’s easy to customize based on personal preferences
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor. Cook it in a hot skillet until golden brown, then prepare the garlic sauce while the chicken rests for juicy results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for beef or even tofu if you want a vegetarian version. Add extra spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken at least four hours for better flavor infusion
- Always rest the meat after cooking to keep it juicy
- Serve with fresh veggies and pita for a delightful meal that looks as good as it tastes
Sometimes, I whip up this Chicken Shawarma when I’m craving comfort food, and my friends rave about how delicious it is every time.
FAQ
What type of chicken works best for Chicken Shawarma?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their rich flavor and juiciness.
Can I make Chicken Shawarma ahead of time?
Absolutely Marinate the chicken the night before for enhanced flavors.
What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
Pair it with pita bread, fresh salad, or fluffy rice for a complete meal
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern delight that will elevate any meal. Juicy marinated chicken, grilled to perfection and paired with a rich, creamy garlic sauce, makes this dish irresistible. Serve it wrapped in warm pita bread, topped with fresh veggies for a satisfying and vibrant culinary experience. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this Chicken Shawarma will become your go-to recipe for impressing friends and family alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 pita breads
- Fresh veggies (tomatoes, cucumbers) for topping
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- 2. Preheat Grill/Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 3. Cook the Chicken: Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and let it reach room temperature. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes or bake until golden brown.
- 4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 5. Assemble Your Shawarma: Slice cooked chicken thinly against the grain. Spread creamy garlic sauce on warm pita bread and layer with sliced chicken and fresh veggies.
- 6. Enjoy: Wrap the shawarma tightly and savor each delicious bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shawarma (200g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
