Introduction
Do you love tasty and juicy food that’s full of flavor? If yes, then you are going to love this Easy Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce! Shawarma is a very popular dish in the Middle East, but people all over the world enjoy it now. It is made with spiced meat, usually chicken, wrapped in flatbread and topped with sauces and veggies.
The best part? You can make this yummy recipe at home with just a few simple ingredients. You don’t need a fancy oven or special tools. This recipe is easy to follow, and the result is super delicious. Even if you’re a beginner at cooking, you’ll do great!
Ingredients – Chicken Shawarma
Before you start cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need.
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500 grams (about 1 pound) of boneless chicken (breast or thigh)
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed or finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Other Ingredients:
- Flatbread or pita bread
- Sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce (optional, for stuffing)
- Pickles (optional)
Step by Step Process – Chicken Shawarma
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Take a bowl and add yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and all the spices (cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, salt, pepper) along with the crushed garlic. Mix everything well.
Cut the chicken into thin slices or small pieces and add them to the bowl. Mix until the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour. For best flavor, marinate for 4–5 hours.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In another small bowl, mix mayonnaise, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a frying pan or skillet on medium heat. Add a little oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Make sure the chicken is soft and juicy.
Step 4: Warm the Bread
Warm your flatbread or pita bread in a pan or microwave for a few seconds. This will make it soft and easier to roll.
Step 5: Build the Shawarma Wrap
Place the cooked chicken pieces in the middle of the bread. Add the creamy garlic sauce on top. You can also add sliced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, lettuce, or pickles for extra crunch and taste.
Fold or roll the bread to make a wrap. You can also grill it for 1–2 minutes if you like it crispy.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Fat | 24 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugar | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have yogurt?
If you don’t have yogurt, you can use sour cream or even buttermilk. It helps to soften the meat.
Q3: How long can I store cooked shawarma?
You can keep the cooked chicken in an airtight box in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it before using.
Q4: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! You can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Make sure to turn the pieces halfway through.
Q5: Is this dish spicy?
Not too much. The spices give flavor, but it’s not very hot. You can add chili flakes if you like it spicy.
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce at home is easy, fun, and super tasty. You don’t need any special cooking skills or tools. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that tastes like it’s from a restaurant.
This recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even parties. You can change the toppings to match your taste. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again! So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give this easy chicken shawarma recipe a try. Your family and friends will thank you for it!
