Creamy Garlic Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and fragrant Middle Eastern dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering. Tender marinated chicken cooked to perfection pairs wonderfully with a creamy garlic sauce. It’s simple to make but packed with bold, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken (breast or thigh), sliced
• 2 tablespoons shawarma spices
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup yogurt (plain, full-fat recommended)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the chicken slices with shawarma spices, minced garlic, and yogurt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Step 3: Serve the cooked chicken hot with extra garlic sauce or alongside pita bread, fresh vegetables, and pickles for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra tenderness, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to the marinade.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier, more flavorful shawarma.
• Try grilling the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor instead of pan-frying.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the garlic sauce for a bright finish.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through. Keep any extra garlic sauce refrigerated and use within 2-3 days for best freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors develop more deeply.

What can I serve with chicken shawarma?

Chicken shawarma pairs well with pita bread, rice, fresh salads, pickles, and dips like hummus or baba ganoush for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 73 reviews

A flavorful and easy-to-make Chicken Shawarma recipe served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. The chicken is marinated in a blend of aromatic shawarma spices and yogurt for tender, juicy meat, then cooked until perfectly browned. This Middle Eastern classic is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Garlic Sauce

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with shawarma spice mix, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat all pieces thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
3. Prepare Garlic Sauce: While the chicken cooks, mix together the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Serve: Slice the cooked chicken if desired and arrange on a serving plate. Drizzle or serve alongside the garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if using. Enjoy your homemade chicken shawarma with garlic sauce wrapped in pita, over rice, or as is.

Notes

• For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness.
• Shawarma spice mix typically includes cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, and cinnamon; you can find it pre-made or make your own.
• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat than chicken breasts.
• The garlic sauce can be adjusted with a bit of mayonnaise or tahini for creaminess if preferred.
• Serve with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Garlic Sauce, Middle Eastern Chicken, Shawarma Recipe, Marinated Chicken, Easy Dinner