Irresistibly Juicy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe
This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe captures the rich flavors of the Middle East with ease of preparation.
Equipment
- Grill
- Large Bowl
- Blender
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 pounds Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Thighs provide more flavor and juiciness.
- 1 cup Yogurt Greek yogurt works great for a thicker marinade.
- 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice Always opt for fresh juice for the best taste.
- 4 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves are ideal for maximum flavor impact.
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin If unavailable, coriander can be used as a substitute.
- 1 tablespoon Paprika Smoked paprika brings a lovely depth.
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the dish.
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil is a suitable substitute if desired.
For the Garlic Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic Using roasted garlic can lend a sweeter flavor profile.
- 1 cup Mayonnaise Light mayo can be substituted for a healthier option.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed lemon juice always enhances the flavor.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
For the Wraps
- 4 pieces Pita or Flatbread Homemade or store-bought works well.
- 2 cups Fresh Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, etc.) Choose seasonal veggies for the best flavor.
- 1 cup Pickles Dill or garlic pickles are fantastic choices.
Instructions
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
- In a large bowl, mix together the boneless chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and olive oil. Coat the chicken thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill or bake the marinated chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for a golden brown exterior.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender. Then, slice the chicken thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- While the chicken is resting, blend the garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste—it should be creamy with a punch of garlic.
- Take your warm pita or flatbread and layer on the sliced chicken. Add fresh vegetables, crunchy pickles, and a generous drizzle of garlic sauce to complete your delightful wrap.
- Serve each wrap with extra garlic sauce on the side and enjoy the smiles as everyone digs in!
Notes
Optional: For an extra kick, sprinkle some chili flakes over your chicken before serving. Allow the chicken to marinate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavors.