Easy Chicken Shawarma

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Introduction

Easy Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful, aromatic dish that takes the best parts of Mediterranean cuisine and turns them into a simple, satisfying meal. The tender chicken, marinated in a blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic, gets a deliciously smoky char when cooked. Wrapped in a soft pita and topped with a refreshing, creamy garlic sauce, this dish is perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty but easy to prepare.

This recipe quickly became a go-to for me after I first made it for a casual dinner with friends. The chicken, with its crispy edges and juicy interior, was a hit from the very first bite. The homemade shawarma spice mix is what really makes this dish stand out—it’s full of depth and warmth, but not overpowering. And the garlic sauce? It ties everything together, balancing the spices with its creamy richness. The best part is that this meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Easy Chicken Shawarma has a special place in my meal rotation. It’s a dish that never disappoints, whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for one. The combination of juicy chicken, soft pita, and tangy sauce is the kind of meal that makes you feel good—comforting, yet light enough to keep you coming back for more. If you want a dinner that’s bursting with flavor and ridiculously easy to make, this is the recipe to try.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Meal prepping
  • Middle Eastern cuisine lovers
  • Healthy but flavorful meals
  • Family-friendly dishes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – This recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Flavorful & Aromatic – The spices create a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exotic.
  • Customizable – You can adjust the spices or toppings to your preference, making this recipe as versatile as you want it to be.
  • Healthy & Lean – Chicken breast is lean, high in protein, and lower in fat compared to traditional shawarma cuts.
  • All-In-One Meal – Serve the chicken in wraps, bowls, or salads for a complete meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • 4 pita bread or flatbreads
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup tahini sauce or yogurt sauce
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Pickled vegetables (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Spices – The combination of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon creates a complex, aromatic flavor profile.
  • Chicken Breasts – A lean source of protein that cooks quickly, perfect for weeknight meals.
  • Tahini or Yogurt Sauce – Adds creaminess and tang to balance the spices.
  • Fresh Vegetables – Cucumber, tomato, and onion provide freshness and crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

  1. Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Coat the Chicken – Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add them to the marinade and toss until the chicken is fully coated.
  3. Marinate – Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor).

Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a Skillet – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Cook the Chicken – Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Rest the Chicken – Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.

Assemble the Shawarma

  1. Prepare the Toppings – While the chicken rests, prepare the cucumber, tomato, onion, and any other toppings you plan to use.
  2. Serve – Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in a dry skillet for about 1 minute on each side.
  3. Build the Shawarma – Layer the cooked chicken on the flatbread, then top with cucumber, tomato, onion, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

How to Serve

  • As Wraps – Serve the chicken in warm pita or flatbread wraps, garnished with fresh vegetables and sauce.
  • In a Bowl – Serve the shawarma chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa with your favorite toppings for a healthy bowl.
  • As Part of a Salad – Serve the chicken on top of a fresh salad with a tangy dressing.
  • With Pickled Vegetables – Add a tangy twist by including some pickled cucumbers or turnips on the side.

Additional Tips

  • Marinate Longer for More Flavor – If you have time, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
  • Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Shawarma – If you prefer a more traditional shawarma texture, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
  • Customize the Toppings – Add feta cheese, olives, or hummus for extra flavor.
  • Make it Spicy – Add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.
  • Grill the Chicken – For a smoky flavor, cook the chicken on a grill or grill pan instead of a skillet.

Recipe Variations

  1. Beef Shawarma – Substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef for a different version.
  2. Vegetarian Shawarma – Use grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers as the main filling.
  3. Spicy Chicken Shawarma – Add chili powder or harissa to the marinade for a spicier dish.
  4. Gluten-Free Shawarma – Use gluten-free wraps or serve over a salad to make it gluten-free.
  5. Shawarma with Hummus – Spread a layer of hummus on the pita before adding the chicken for a creamy touch.
  6. Chicken Shawarma Bowl – Serve the chicken over brown rice or couscous for a filling bowl meal.
  7. Mediterranean Shawarma – Add tzatziki sauce, olives, and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
  8. Shawarma Skewers – Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for a fun, skewered version of the dish.
  9. Lemon Garlic Chicken Shawarma – Add extra lemon zest and garlic to the marinade for a bright, zesty version.
  10. Crispy Chicken Shawarma – Bread the marinated chicken pieces and pan-fry for a crispy texture.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing Chicken – You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
  • Storing Leftovers – Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Special Equipment

  1. Skillet or Grill Pan – For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
  2. Knife & Cutting Board – For slicing the chicken and prepping the vegetables.
  3. Mixing Bowl – To combine the marinade ingredients.
  4. Whisk – For mixing the marinade evenly.
  5. Tongs – For flipping the chicken while cooking.
  6. Pita or Flatbread – For wrapping the shawarma or serving as a base for bowls.
  7. Serving Tray – To serve the shawarma family-style or as individual portions.
  8. Measuring Spoons – For accurate seasoning.
  9. Grater or Zester – For zesting lemon if you want a bright, citrusy twist.
  10. Storage Containers – For storing leftover chicken or marinated chicken for freezing.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the marinade the day before and refrigerate it until ready to use.
  2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs work well for a juicier and more tender shawarma.
  3. Can I make this recipe spicy?
    Yes, you can add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or harissa paste to the marinade for heat.
  4. Can I use store-bought shawarma spice mix?
    Yes, you can substitute the individual spices with a store-bought shawarma spice mix for convenience.
  5. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Use a dairy-free yogurt or tahini sauce for a creamy finish without the dairy.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Shawarma is the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy bold, savory flavors in a simple and convenient way. The tender, juicy chicken is infused with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering balance of heat, warmth, and depth in every bite.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its versatility; whether served in a pita wrap, over a fresh salad, or alongside fragrant rice, it can easily be tailored to your preferences. Top it with crunchy vegetables, a dollop of creamy garlic sauce, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.

Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual get-together, Easy Chicken Shawarma will become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire. I’m excited for you to give it a try! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing how you make it your own. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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