Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe at Home!

Welcome to our guide on how to make the best and most authentic chicken shawarma right in the comfort of your own kitchen. If you’re a fan of this delicious Middle Eastern dish, you’ll love our simple and easy chicken shawarma recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can recreate the flavors of your favorite takeaway in no time.

Chicken shawarma is a popular street food known for its tender and flavorful meat, marinated in a delicious blend of spices and slow-roasted to perfection. Our homemade version captures all the authentic flavors of the Middle East, with a simple shawarma spice mixture that includes warm spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika.

To make this mouthwatering chicken shawarma, all you need is boneless, skinless chicken thighs, onions, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and of course, our special spice blend. Coat the chicken in the spice mixture and let it marinate before baking it in the oven. The result is succulent and aromatic chicken that’s perfect for stuffing into pita pockets or wraps.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or planning a special meal for family and friends, our homemade chicken shawarma won’t disappoint. Follow our easy recipe and bring the flavors of the Middle East into your home today.

What is Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food that has gained worldwide recognition for its tantalising flavours and unique cooking method. This delectable dish consists of well-marinated chicken that is layered on a vertical rotisserie or spit. Slowly roasted over a period of days, the chicken absorbs its own juices and fat, resulting in tender and succulent meat that is bursting with flavour.

Authentic chicken shawarma is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East. Traditionally, the roasted chicken is shaved off the spit and generously piled into warm pita pockets. The dish is then perfectly complemented with creamy tahini sauce and an array of fresh toppings, such as crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy pickles, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

The seductive aroma and mouth-watering taste of chicken shawarma takes your taste buds on a journey to the bustling streets of the Middle East, where the aroma of sizzling meat and the sound of vendors beckon locals and tourists alike. This traditional dish has evolved over generations, captivating food enthusiasts around the world with its authentic flavours and unique experience.

Whether you’re seeking an introduction to Middle Eastern cuisine or looking to recreate a beloved classic, chicken shawarma is a dish that embodies tradition, authenticity, and culinary excellence. It is a testament to the vibrant and diverse flavors that Middle Eastern cuisine has to offer, transporting you to a world of spices and sensory delights.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma at Home

Making chicken shawarma at home is easier than you might think. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of traditional chicken shawarma in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper to make the shawarma spice mixture.
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the spice mixture until well coated.
3. Add the sliced onion, lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl and mix well to combine.
4. If time allows, cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight for enhanced flavors.
5. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Spread the marinated chicken and onions onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Once your homemade chicken shawarma is ready, you can serve it in various ways. Enjoy it stuffed into warm pita bread with a drizzle of tahini sauce and your favorite fresh toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded lettuce. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or as a protein-rich filling for a vibrant salad. The options are endless!

With this easy chicken shawarma recipe, you can impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering Middle Eastern dish made right in your own kitchen. The aromatic spices and tender chicken will transport your taste buds to the streets of the Middle East. Give it a try and savor the flavors of traditional chicken shawarma!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Shawarma Recipe

The traditional way to serve chicken shawarma is in pita pockets or wraps with an abundance of fresh veggies and sauce. Load up your pita pockets with chicken shawarma, arugula, and a 3-ingredient Mediterranean salad. Drizzle with tahini sauce or use a white yogurt-based sauce like Greek Tzatziki. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, consider serving chicken shawarma as sliders instead. You can also prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the wraps when it’s time to eat. Simply warm up the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and add a little liquid to prevent it from drying out.

For a truly delightful chicken shawarma experience, serve it alongside some authentic Middle Eastern sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Tabbouleh – a refreshing parsley and bulgur salad.
• Hummus – a creamy chickpea-based dip.
• Baba ganoush – a smoky roasted eggplant dip.
• Labneh – a tangy strained yogurt spread.

These traditional Middle Eastern dishes complement the flavors of chicken shawarma perfectly, adding depth and variety to your meal. Serve with warm pita bread or flatbreads for a complete dining experience.

If you’re looking for a unique twist on the classic chicken shawarma recipe, try making a chicken shawarma salad. Simply toss your marinated and cooked chicken shawarma with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese. Dress it with a lemony vinaigrette or a drizzle of tahini sauce for a light and refreshing meal option.

Conclusion

Bring the authentic flavors of the Middle East into your kitchen with this easy chicken shawarma recipe. By following the simple steps and using the flavorful shawarma spice mixture, you’ll be able to create a homemade chicken shawarma that rivals your favorite takeaway spot.

Impress your family and friends with this delicious chicken shawarma recipe! Serve it in pita pockets or wraps with an array of fresh toppings and sauces for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy sauces will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Don’t settle for an average chicken shawarma, make your own homemade version and experience the rich Middle Eastern flavors. With this easy chicken shawarma recipe, you have the power to create a mouthwatering dish right in your own kitchen. So, grab your apron and give it a try!