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Chicken Shawarma (Middle Eastern)


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  • Author: Maggie
  • Total Time: 30 mins active (plus marinating)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Chicken Shawarma is a juicy, flavorful Middle Eastern classic featuring marinated spiced chicken cooked to perfection and served with soft flatbreads, fresh veggies, and a creamy yogurt sauce. This homemade version captures authentic shawarma flavor with stovetop or grill cooking, making it perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or meal prep.


Ingredients

1 kg / 2 lb chicken thigh fillets, skinless and boneless

1 large garlic clove, minced (or 2 small)

1 tbsp ground coriander

1 tbsp ground cumin

1 tbsp ground cardamom

1 tsp ground cayenne pepper (or 1/2 tsp for less heat)

2 tsp smoked paprika

2 tsp salt

Black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp lemon juice

3 tbsp olive oil

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 tsp cumin

Squeeze of lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

45 flatbreads (Lebanese, pita, or homemade)

Sliced lettuce (cos or iceberg)

Tomato slices

Red onion, finely sliced

Shredded cheese (optional)

Hot sauce (optional)


Instructions

  1. Combine marinade ingredients in a large zip-top bag. Add chicken, seal, and massage to coat. Marinate at least 3 hours, ideally overnight.
  2. Mix yogurt, garlic, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Refrigerate until serving.
  3. Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat with 1 tbsp oil. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes on the first side until charred. Flip and cook 3–4 more minutes. Remove, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Slice chicken and serve with flatbreads, yogurt sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Add cheese or hot sauce if desired. Roll and enjoy.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts can be used if pounded thin.
  • Marinating overnight gives the best flavor, but 3 hours still works well.
  • Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes instead of grilling if preferred.
  • Swap yogurt sauce for tahini for a dairy-free version.
  • Use gluten-free flatbreads to make the meal fully gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins (plus 3–24 hrs marinating)
  • Cook Time: 10–12 mins
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling, Pan-Frying, Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 wrap
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg