Homemade Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Homemade Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon ground Kashmiri chili
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup full-fat yogurt

For the Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup water (adjust to desired consistency)
  • Salt to taste

For the Wrap:

  • Pita bread or flatbreads
  • Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

    Instructions:

    Prepare the Marinade:

    • In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground Kashmiri chili, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, salt, lemon juice, and full-fat yogurt.
    • Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
    Cook the Chicken:
    • Preheat your grill, grill pan, or oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Grill or bake the marinated chicken until fully cooked and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. If using an oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
    Make the Sauce:
    • In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and water until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more water if needed. Season with salt to taste.
    Assemble the Shawarma:
    • Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
    • Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in a pan or microwave.
    • Spread a generous amount of tahini sauce on each piece of bread.
    • Layer with fresh vegetables and sliced chicken.
    • Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
    Serve:
    • Roll up the bread to enclose the filling.
    • Serve immediately with extra tahini sauce on the side for dipping.

    Tips:

    • Extra Toppings: Add pickles, hummus, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
    • Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
    • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or falafel for a delicious vegetarian shawarma.

    Enjoy your simple, homemade shawarma, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal!

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