Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce: Easy Weeknight Dinner!

Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce: Easy Weeknight Dinner! 🥙🧄✨

1. Introduction

Embark on a flavorful journey with this Chicken Shawarma recipe, a popular dish from the Middle East renowned for its aromatic spices and tender meat. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines juicy chicken with a velvety Creamy Garlic Sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create authentic Middle Eastern Chicken shawarma in your own kitchen.

2. Ingredients needed for Middle Eastern Chicken shawarma

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-step instructions for making Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Prepare the Marinade

Combine the spices—cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper—in a small bowl. Mix well to create a fragrant spice blend.

Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken with olive oil and the spice mixture until evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Cook the Chicken Shawarma

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until fully cooked and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, for a healthier option, you can cook the chicken in an Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast for a crispy finish.

Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. Mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. For a store-bought alternative, try this easy creamy garlic sauce.

Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

Warm pita bread or flatbreads. Fill with cooked chicken, fresh vegetables like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, then drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.

4. Tips for perfectly seasoned Middle Eastern Chicken

• Adjust spice levels to taste—add more cayenne for heat or reduce for milder flavor.
• Use yogurt-based sauces to keep the dish light and refreshing.
• Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for authentic searing and flavor development.

5. How to store and reheat Middle Eastern Chicken shawarma

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. To preserve the crispiness, reheat in an air fryer like the Ninja Air Fryer.

6. Serving suggestions for Middle Eastern Chicken

Serve your Chicken shawarma with fresh vegetables, side salads, or rice. For a healthy option, try pairing it with healthy lunch ideas. This dish also complements hummus, pickles, and tahini sauce for a fully authentic experience.

7. FAQs about Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but may dry out faster. To keep them juicy, avoid overcooking and consider marinating for longer.

What are good substitutions for the spices?

If you don’t have all the spices, a pre-made shawarma spice blend can simplify the process. Check local stores or online for authentic mixes.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

From start to finish, including marinating, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The actual cooking time is around 10 minutes.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Perfect for making refreshing drinks to accompany your shawarma.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Makes chopping your vegetables quick and easy.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Ideal for batch cooking or prepping in advance.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures your cooking process is smooth and your pans release easily.

9. Conclusion

Craving a flavorful, easy-to-make Chicken Shawarma? This recipe offers authentic spices paired with a luscious Creamy Garlic Sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Middle East without leaving home. Enjoy your homemade Middle Eastern Chicken shawarma, and don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and side dishes to make it uniquely yours!

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