Chicken shawarma recipe

Chicken Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern street food known for its aromatic spices and tender, juicy meat. Traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, this flavorful dish can be recreated at home using an oven, grill, or stovetop. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through an authentic Chicken Shawarma recipe, including marinating techniques, cooking methods, and serving suggestions.

Originating from the Middle East, this eastern Chicken Shawarma has gained global popularity for its rich flavors and versatility. The dish involves marinating chicken in a blend of spices and yogurt, then cooking it until perfectly tender. Served with warm pita bread and fresh vegetables, it's a meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

Ingredients

To prepare authentic Chicken Shawarma at home, gather the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving:

• 6 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup sliced red onions
• 1/2 cup pickles (optional)
• 1/2 cup tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating is a crucial step that infuses the chicken with deep, robust flavors. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Slice each breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets, approximately 1/2 inch thick.

2. Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is well blended.

3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces into the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight. Marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in more flavorful and tender chicken.

Cooking Methods

While traditional shawarma is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, home cooks can achieve similar results using an oven, grill, or stovetop. Here are the methods:

Oven Method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with olive oil.

3. Arrange the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer.

4. Bake: Cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the edges are slightly charred. For additional charring, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Grill Method:

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and charred to your preference.

Stovetop Method:

1. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Shawarma is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Shawarma Wrap: Place sliced chicken on warm pita bread, add fresh vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, and red onions, and drizzle with tahini or garlic yogurt sauce. Roll up the pita to enclose the fillings.

• Shawarma Platter: Serve the chicken alongside a portion of rice or couscous, accompanied by a fresh salad and a side of hummus or baba ganoush.

• Shawarma Bowl: Layer a bowl with grains (such as quinoa or rice), add the cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and top with your choice of sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Eastern Shawarma

• Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor infusion.

• Achieve the Char: A charring effect enhances the authentic shawarma taste. Use high heat on a grill, oven, or stovetop to get that slightly crispy, smoky flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and high-quality spices to enhance the overall taste.

• Warm the Pita Bread: Heating the pita bread before assembling your shawarma wrap makes it more pliable and improves the eating experience.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or crushed chili flakes based on your spice preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are an excellent alternative as they are juicier and have more natural fat, which enhances the flavor. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight marination (8-12 hours) provides the most flavor.

Can I Make Chicken Shawarma Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Cooked shawarma can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before serving.

What’s the Best Sauce for Chicken Shawarma?

Tahini sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, or a simple mix of mayonnaise and ketchup are popular options. You can also try a spicy harissa sauce for added heat.

Can I Freeze Chicken Shawarma?

Yes! Cooked shawarma can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen. With the perfect balance of spices, tender marinated chicken, and fresh toppings, this recipe will transport you to the streets of the Middle East. Whether you serve it as a wrap, a platter, or a bowl, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! If you enjoyed it, don’t forget to share it with friends and family.