Authentic Chicken Shawarma

 



Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon ground paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Garlic Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • Pita bread or flatbreads
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Pickles (cucumber or turnip)
  • Fresh parsley or lettuce
  • Optional: thinly sliced onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

  • In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, and salt.
  • Mix until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

  • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. Cook the Chicken:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if using an oven, or heat a grill pan or barbecue if you prefer.
  • If using an oven: Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slightly charred edge. Alternatively, you can use a rotisserie or skewer for more authentic results.
  • If using a grill pan: Heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.

4. Prepare the Garlic Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
  • Mix well and adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. Slice the Chicken:

  • Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.

6. Assemble the Shawarma:

  • Warm the pita or flatbreads in a dry skillet or oven.
  • Spread a generous amount of garlic sauce on the bread.
  • Add the sliced chicken, followed by tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, and parsley or lettuce.

7. Serve:

  • Roll up the pita or flatbread around the fillings and serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade shawarma! It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that's great for both casual meals and special occasions.


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