Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

This easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce brings bold Middle Eastern flavors right to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of spices and creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty weeknight meal, this recipe delivers authentic flavor without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just an hour from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal when time is tight.
• Flavorful Spices: The warm spices used in chicken shawarma create a rich and aromatic experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in warm pita bread, over rice, or alongside fresh veggies for a customizable meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean chicken and homemade garlic sauce, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.
• Family-Friendly: The mild yet flavorful taste appeals to both adults and kids, making it an ideal family meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, here are the essential tools you will need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or non-stick pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or non-stick pan: Essential for achieving that perfect sear on your chicken, ensuring it cooks evenly without sticking.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for marinating the chicken, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Whisk or fork: Makes it easy to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when preparing the garlic sauce.

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 the marinade. Ensure all pieces are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes; for deeper flavor, you can marinate overnight.

Step 2: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat your grill or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent chicken from sticking during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cook the marinated chicken strips for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

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

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Serve the sliced chicken in warm pita bread or on a plate. Drizzle generously with garlic sauce and enjoy alongside pickled turnips or a fresh salad for added crunch!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

In Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread provides a soft, chewy wrap for the flavorful chicken and creamy garlic sauce.
• Add fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a crunchy texture.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy rice for a comforting and filling meal.
• Drizzle additional garlic sauce on top for extra flavor.

With Fresh Veggies

• Pair your shawarma with a side of sliced veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, and radishes.
• This adds freshness and color to your plate.

On a Salad

• Create a vibrant salad by adding the chicken to mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
• Top it off with garlic sauce as the dressing for a zesty finish.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include the chicken shawarma in a mezze platter alongside hummus, tabbouleh, and olives.
• This allows guests to sample various flavors and textures.

In a Wrap

• Roll the chicken in large tortillas for a portable lunch option.
• Add shredded cabbage or slaw for crunch and flavor in every bite.

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How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

To make sure your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will provide a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground ones.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Ensure your grill or pan is hot enough before cooking to achieve that perfect sear.
• Rest Before Cutting: Letting the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes keeps it juicy when you slice it.
• Adjust Garlic Level: You can increase or decrease the amount of garlic in the sauce based on your preference for strong flavors.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding pickled vegetables or fresh herbs like parsley for added taste and garnish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Shawarma can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Hummus: A smooth chickpea dip that adds creaminess; serve with warm pita chips for dipping.
2. Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice; great for balancing flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender bring out their natural sweetness; an easy side option.
4. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in tangy dressing; perfect for crunch lovers.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Cool yogurt mixed with diced cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to spicy shawarma.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with aromatic spices makes an excellent base for soaking up garlic sauce.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the savory notes of shawarma beautifully.
8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): Savory grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs; they add an element of tradition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken shawarma at home can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Marinade Mistake: Skipping the marination can lead to bland chicken. Always marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for richer flavors.
• Heat Level Error: Cooking on too high heat can burn the chicken outside while leaving it raw inside. Adjust your grill or pan to medium-high heat for even cooking.
• Ingredient Substitution Blunder: Replacing key spices may alter the dish’s authenticity. Stick to the listed spices for that classic shawarma flavor.
• Sauce Consistency Problem: Using too much lemon juice in the garlic sauce can make it runny. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste for the perfect creaminess.
• Serving Suggestion Oversight: Forgetting to pair with fresh veggies or bread can make your meal less satisfying. Always include a side of pita or salad for balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between each until hot. This helps avoid drying out the chicken.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce.

What is Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated grilled chicken served with a creamy garlic sauce, usually wrapped in pita or served on a plate.

Can I use other meats for shawarma?

Yes! Beef, lamb, or even vegetables can be used instead of chicken for different variations of shawarma.

How long does it take to make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

The total time is about 60 minutes, including marinating and cooking the chicken.

Can I modify the marinade for Chicken Shawarma?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices according to your preference, but keeping the base flavors will maintain its authentic taste.

Is Chicken Shawarma healthy?

With lean protein from chicken and customizable ingredients, Chicken Shawarma can be a healthy option when served with fresh vegetables and whole-grain pita.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe not only brings vibrant Middle Eastern flavors into your kitchen but also offers versatility in serving options. Feel free to customize it according to your preferences by adding different toppings or sides. Enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week!