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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 46 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.