When my craving for something flavorful strikes, I often find myself reaching for a warm, comforting wrap. Picture this: the seductive aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill, coupled with the irresistible allure of creamy garlic sauce that dances on your taste buds. This is exactly the magic of my Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce, a delightful dish that transports you right to the bustling streets of the Middle East with every bite.
Each component of this shawarma plays a captivating role—from the juicy, spiced chicken thighs enveloped in a soft pita to the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables. It’s a meal that celebrates both spice and simplicity, perfectly suited for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with family and friends. If you’re searching for an exciting departure from those monotonous fast-food runs, let this hearty recipe inspire you to ignite the grill! Join me in exploring how easy—and delicious—it is to create this culinary gem in your very own kitchen.
Why is Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The savory marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant Middle Eastern spices, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Creamy Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce is a game-changer, adding a rich, tangy complement to the grilled chicken.
Quick & Easy: Preparing this recipe is simple, taking less than an hour, ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is perfect for gatherings, impressing family and friends with its exotic taste.
Customizable: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or add your favorite veggies—make it your own!
Transform your meals with this exciting recipe and never look back at fast food again!
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients
• For the Chicken Marinade
- Chicken Thighs – Tender, juicy base for the dish; substitute with chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time.
- Plain Yogurt – Tenderizes the chicken and adds creaminess to the marinade.
- Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps spices adhere to the chicken.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and assists in tenderizing the meat.
- Minced Garlic – Adds aromatic depth to both the marinade and the creamy garlic sauce.
- Ground Cumin – Delivers earthy notes characteristic of Middle Eastern flavors.
- Ground Coriander – Lightens the marinade and balances flavor beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds smokiness and vibrant color, enhancing visual appeal.
- Ground Allspice – Introduces a warm, sweet-spicy complexity to the marinade.
- Turmeric – Enhances the marinade’s color and imparts an earthy note.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors throughout the dish.
• For Assembling the Shawarma
- Pita Bread or Flatbread – Acts as the vessel to hold the delicious fillings.
- Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Red Onions – Adds freshness and crunchy texture to every bite.
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a pop of color, making your dish visually inviting.
• For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Serves as the creamy base for the sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Additional Garlic and Lemon Juice – Enhances flavor and acidity in the sauce.
Unleash the flavors of the Middle East in your home with this tempting Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
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Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground allspice, turmeric, salt, and pepper until smooth and fragrant.
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Marinate Chicken: Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, ensuring all sides are covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
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Preheat Grill/Oven: Heat your grill to medium-high, or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for cooking.
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Cook Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. If baking, arrange on a lined sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Make Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, additional minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use, allowing flavors to meld.
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Slice Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven. Let it rest for a moment, then slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
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Assemble Shawarma: Take a warm pita, fill it generously with the sliced chicken, and add fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions. Drizzle liberally with the creamy garlic sauce.
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Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a gorgeous finish, and serve immediately while everything is warm and delicious!
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this recipe to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Chicken Breasts: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time to maintain juiciness.
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Greek Yogurt Sauce: Replace mayonnaise in the garlic sauce with Greek yogurt for a delicious and healthier alternative that adds a nice tang.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, lettuce, or even shredded carrots to add extra crunch and nutritional value to your shawarma.
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Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the marinade before cooking.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like dill or mint into the creamy garlic sauce for a refreshing twist that complements the chicken beautifully.
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Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of orange juice to the marinade for a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
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Cauliflower Shawarma: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower for a delightful vegetarian version that still captures the essence of traditional shawarma.
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Smoky Upgrade: Incorporate a dash of liquid smoke into the marinade for an even deeper smoky flavor that enhances the grilled experience.
Let these variations inspire you to create a Chicken Shawarma that feels uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
To create a meal that dazzles with textures and flavors, consider these enticing side options.
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Crispy Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad of finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat brings a bright contrast to the richness of the shawarma. Its herbs and lemony notes add a refreshing note, balancing the dish beautifully.
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Spicy Hummus: Creamy and rich, spicy hummus is perfect for dipping pita or spreading onto your wraps. Its smooth texture and kick of spice harmonize wonderfully with the savory shawarma.
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Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant provides a smoky depth that complements the marinated chicken’s flavors. Charred on the grill, their slightly sweet flavors beautifully enhance the shawarma experience.
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Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Creamy yogurt with cool cucumbers and dill brings a soothing balance to the meal, cooling the palate against the warm spices of the shawarma.
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Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy and seasoned to perfection, roasted chickpeas add a delightful texture and nutty flavor. They make a nutritious and addictive nibble alongside the shawarma.
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Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink, infused with mint and a zest of lemon, perfectly complements the spices of the shawarma. Its coolness will undoubtedly elevate your dining experience.
Combine these sides for a vibrant, fulfilling meal that shines at your table, and relishes the magic of Middle Eastern flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to deeply infuse the meat for exceptional flavor. To maintain quality, ensure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy garlic sauce can also be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, simply grill or bake the marinated chicken as instructed, slice it, and assemble the shawarma with fresh vegetables and the sauce for a quick, convenient meal that’s just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma
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Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight, letting the spices deeply penetrate the meat.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F for safety and juiciness.
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Avoid Sogginess: If you have leftovers, store the chicken, garlic sauce, and vegetables separately to keep everything fresh and crispy.
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Choose the Right Cut: Although chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness, chicken breasts can be used—just remember to adjust your cooking time.
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Customize the Sauce: For a lighter option, swap mayonnaise in the creamy garlic sauce for Greek yogurt while maintaining that luscious flavor.
Elevate your cooking experience and delight in this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma
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Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken, sauce, and vegetables separate to maintain freshness and texture.
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Freezer: If you have marinated chicken that hasn’t been cooked, you can freeze it for later use. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag with marinade for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven or on a skillet until warmed through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Wraps: For best results, assemble your Chicken Shawarma fresh or right before serving to keep the pita from becoming soggy.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Chicken Shawarma?
Absolutely! Selecting ripe produce makes a significant difference in flavor. Look for firm cucumbers and tomatoes with vibrant colors—no blemishes or dark spots. For onions, choose ones that are crisp and fresh. Fresh herbs, like parsley, should be bright green and fragrant, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
Very! Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the textures fresh, I recommend separating the chicken, sauce, and vegetables. This way, your pita won’t become soggy, and you can enjoy the crispness of the ingredients.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken for later use?
Yes, indeed! If you have marinated chicken that hasn’t been cooked yet, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag with the marinade for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then grill or bake as usual for flavorful results.
How can I troubleshoot if my Chicken Shawarma is dry?
Oh no! If your chicken turns out dry, it often means it was overcooked. Using a meat thermometer can help—make sure it reaches 165°F. Additionally, marinating overnight helps tenderize the chicken, retaining moisture. For a juicy shawarma next time, consider reducing cooking time or using a thigh cut, which tends to be juicier.
Are there allergies I should consider with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Chicken Shawarma includes common allergens like dairy (yogurt and mayonnaise), so if anyone at your gathering has a dairy allergy, I recommend substituting the yogurt with coconut yogurt or using a dairy-free mayonnaise. Always check labels for any specific dietary needs of your guests.
Can pets safely share Chicken Shawarma?
It’s best to avoid sharing Chicken Shawarma with pets. While plain cooked chicken can be safe for them, the spices and sauce—especially garlic—can be harmful. If you want to treat your furry friend, set aside some unsalted, unspiced chicken before marinating.
Savory Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground allspice, turmeric, salt, and pepper until smooth and fragrant.
- Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, ensuring all sides are covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high, or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for cooking.
- Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. If baking, arrange on a lined sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, additional minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven. Let it rest for a moment, then slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Take a warm pita, fill it generously with the sliced chicken, and add fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions. Drizzle liberally with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a gorgeous finish, and serve immediately while everything is warm and delicious!