Introduction
Chicken Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish known for its tantalizing flavors and tender meat. This delightful recipe allows you to recreate the authentic taste of shawarma right in your kitchen. Marinated in a medley of spices and yogurt, the chicken is grilled to perfection and served in wraps or pita bread with a variety of fresh toppings. This article guides you through the process of making this delicious dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 1.5 pounds
Yogurt – 1 cup
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin – 1 tablespoon
Ground paprika – 1 tablespoon
Ground turmeric – 1 teaspoon
Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Pita bread or wraps – for serving
Vegetables (like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers) – for garnish
Tahini sauce or garlic sauce – for serving
Prep Time
Prep time for this Chicken Shawarma is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time taken to marinate the chicken and prepare the ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. The total time for making Chicken Shawarma, including preparation and cooking, is approximately 40 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken and ensure it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s charred and cooked through.
Step 3: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Step 4: Slice the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken into thin strips while it’s still warm.
Step 5: Prepare the Salad
In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss well to combine.
Step 6: Assemble the Shawarma
Lay out pita bread or flatbreads, then add a generous amount of sliced chicken. Top with the prepared salad and drizzle with tahini sauce or garlic sauce if desired.
Step 7: Serve
Wrap the pita or flatbread around the filling, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Note 1: Marination Time
For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight.
Note 2: Cooking Method
You can use a grill, skillet, or an oven to cook the chicken based on your preference.
Note 3: Sauce Options
Consider serving with a variety of sauces such as tahini, garlic sauce, or yogurt sauce to enhance the flavors further.
Note 4: Dietary Adjustments
Feel free to substitute chicken with other proteins like beef or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Note 5: Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find certain spices, you can use store-bought shawarma spice mix as an alternative.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken for several hours or overnight enhances flavor and tenderness. Use a blend of spices and yogurt for the best results.
Grilling
Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a smoky flavor and charred lines. Ensure it’s cooked through, with juices running clear.
Resting
Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Serving
Serve the chicken in pita bread or on rice, garnished with fresh vegetables and sauces such as tahini or garlic sauce for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative; they are juicier and add more flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
What sides pair well with chicken shawarma?
Popular sides include tabbouleh, hummus, and roasted vegetables.
Can I substitute yogurt in the marinade?
Yes, you can use a non-dairy yogurt alternative or skip it altogether, but it may affect the tenderness of the chicken.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
Conclusion
The Chicken Shawarma is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. With its aromatic spices and tender, juicy chicken, it not only makes for a perfect meal but also offers endless possibilities for customization and pairing. Whether enjoyed in a wrap, as part of a platter, or with a side of fresh salads, Chicken Shawarma is sure to satisfy and impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Serve the marinated chicken wrapped in pita bread with fresh vegetables, garlic sauce, and a sprinkle of pickles for a classic shawarma experience.
Shawarma Rice Bowl
Layer saffron-infused rice with slices of chicken shawarma, topped with a mix of grilled vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a hearty bowl.
Chicken Shawarma Salad
Create a fresh salad base with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, then top it with grilled chicken shawarma and a lemony dressing.
Shawarma Plate with Hummus
Serve chicken shawarma alongside a generous portion of hummus, tabbouleh, and warm pita for a complete Middle Eastern feast.
Shawarma Sandwich
Make a satisfying sandwich by layering shawarma on crusty bread with lettuce, tomato, and a yogurt-based sauce for added creaminess.
Mezze Platter
Include chicken shawarma on a mezze platter with an assortment of dips like baba ghanoush, tzatziki, and pita chips, perfect for sharing with friends.