Chicken Shawarma is a culinary gem that brings the vibrant, aromatic flavors of the Middle East straight to your kitchen. With its tender, spiced chicken, creamy tahini sauce, and a medley of fresh toppings, this dish is a celebration of bold and comforting flavors. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, Chicken Shawarma is a versatile dish that never fails to impress.

The Magic of Chicken Shawarma

The heart of this dish lies in the marinade. A harmonious blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon combines with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to create layers of flavor that penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. Paired with a tangy, nutty tahini sauce and a variety of fresh vegetables, every bite is a symphony of taste and texture.

Recipe: Chicken Shawarma

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Water, to thin out if needed

For Assembly:

• Pita bread or flatbreads
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions
• Fresh parsley
• Pickles (optional)
• Hummus (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

2. Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

3. Make the Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt. Gradually stir in water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

4. Assemble the Shawarma: Warm the pita or flatbreads. Layer the sliced chicken in the center, followed by your choice of fresh toppings like cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, parsley, and pickles. Drizzle generously with tahini sauce and add hummus if you like.

5. Serve: Roll the shawarma tightly and serve immediately with a side of fries or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

A Feast for All Occasions

Chicken Shawarma is a dish that brings people together. Its rich flavors, versatility, and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating a street food favorite at home or introducing your family to new cuisines, this shawarma recipe is sure to be a hit.

Enjoy the warmth and joy of sharing this Middle Eastern classic with loved ones, one delicious bite at a time.