Description
This Chicken Shawarma recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a blend of aromatic Middle Eastern spices and roasted to perfection. Paired with a creamy garlic sauce made from yogurt and mayonnaise, it’s a flavorful and easy dish perfect for pita wraps, salads, or rice bowls.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp shawarma seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Prepare chicken: Rub the boneless chicken thighs evenly with olive oil and shawarma seasoning, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
- Roast chicken: Place the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and edges are slightly crispy.
- Make garlic sauce: While the chicken roasts, mix together yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl to create a creamy, tangy garlic sauce.
- Rest and slice chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices; then slice or shred as desired.
- Serve: Serve the roasted chicken with the creamy garlic sauce either drizzled over the top or on the side. Enjoy it in pita bread, over a fresh salad, or with rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Shawarma seasoning can be store-bought or homemade using a blend of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of roasting, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- This recipe works well with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat; adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent drying out.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Serve with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce for added crunch and nutrition.