When you think of a culinary masterpiece that can transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of the Middle East, Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce comes to mind. Picture this: succulent marinated chicken, sizzling on a grill, infused with spices that make your mouth water, while a creamy garlic sauce dances alongside like it’s just won the dance-off at a wedding. Buffalo chicken bites.
I remember the first time I tried making Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. It was a rainy Saturday evening, and the smell wafting through my kitchen was so divine that I thought my neighbors might start knocking down my door for a taste. Pesto pasta with tomatoes Garlic butter pasta dish This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience, perfect for gatherings or simply indulging in on a cozy night in.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The vibrant colors and aromas will impress any guest. Perfect for weeknight dinners but versatile enough for meal prep or entertaining. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences! [/info_box]
Sharing this dish with friends led to endless compliments and requests for the recipe. Air fryer shrimp tacos Who knew grilled chicken could create such joy?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These provide juiciness and flavor; they’re ideal for grilling or roasting.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they add a punchy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth and depth; don’t skip it unless you want bland shawarma!
Paprika: Use sweet or smoked paprika to enhance the color and flavor of the chicken.
Olive Oil: Helps marinate the chicken and keeps it moist during cooking; use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors; bottled juice doesn’t compare!
Pita Bread or Flatbread: A perfect vehicle for your shawarma; it holds everything together nicely.
Fresh Vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions): They add crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the meat.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Marinate Your Chicken: Start by combining olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least one hour; overnight is best if you can wait!
Prepare Your Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). If using an oven, line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and preheat your oven as well.
Cook the Chicken: Grill or roast your marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Keep an eye out for those lovely grill marks!
Make Your Garlic Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and water in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed. This sauce is magic—trust me! For more inspiration, check out this rosemary garlic white bean soup recipe.
Create Your Shawarma Wraps: Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Warm pita bread slightly in the grill or microwave. Layer sliced chicken with fresh vegetables and drizzle generously with garlic sauce.
Savor Every Bite!: Wrap up your shawarma tightly like you’re sealing in all that goodness! Take a bite and let those flavors transport you straight to Shawarma heaven.
Now you’ve got an incredible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe ready to impress family or friends—and maybe even yourself! Enjoy!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Its aromatic spices and creamy garlic sauce will make your taste buds dance. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Next, sear it until golden brown before baking to lock in those juicy flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for beef or veggies and mix in your favorite spices for a personal twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness. Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain moisture and flavor. Don’t rush the marinating process; longer marination means tastier results! [/info_box]
Sharing my first attempt at Chicken Shawarma brings back memories of kitchen chaos, laughter, and deliciously messy eating nights with friends.
FAQ
What is Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?
It’s a Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken served with a creamy garlic sauce.
Can I use other meats for shawarma?
Yes, beef, lamb, or even tofu work beautifully as alternatives.
How can I make the garlic sauce smoother?
Blend the garlic sauce longer until it reaches your desired creaminess and consistency.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a vibrant Middle Eastern delight that brings smoky, spiced grilled chicken together with a rich and creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it wrapped in warm pita with fresh vegetables for an unforgettable experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4 pieces pita bread or flatbread
- 1 cup mixed fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Marinate for at least one hour or overnight for best results.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil if using the oven.
- Grill or roast marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and water until smooth to make the garlic sauce.
- Slice cooked chicken into strips. Warm pita bread slightly and layer with sliced chicken and fresh vegetables; drizzle generously with garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Roasting
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
