Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Bring bold Mediterranean flavors to your table with this irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Juicy, spice-marinated chicken is grilled to smoky perfection and generously topped with a tangy, garlicky cream sauce. This dish is perfect for quick dinners, backyard BBQs, or meal prep days, making it suitable for various occasions. Enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices creates a rich and aromatic taste that will impress everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve in warm pita wraps, over rice, or as part of a vibrant salad.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides that delicious charred flavor essential for shawarma.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in marinating the chicken evenly with spices and yogurt.
• Whisk: Ensures your creamy garlic sauce is perfectly blended for an even texture.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 3 garlic cloves, finely grated or mashed
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt to taste

For Serving

• Warm pita or flatbread
• Fresh parsley or cilantro
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled onions (optional)

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In another mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, and salt until smooth.

Step 5: Serve Your Shawarma

Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Serve in warm pita or flatbread topped with creamy garlic sauce and your choice of fresh veggies like cucumbers or tomatoes. Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Shawarma!

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is delicious and versatile. Whether you enjoy it in a wrap or on a plate, there are plenty of ways to serve this fantastic dish.

In a Pita Wrap

• Fill warm pita bread with sliced chicken shawarma, add creamy garlic sauce, and top with fresh veggies for a quick meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the marinated chicken over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty dinner option. Add sauce and parsley on top for extra flavor.

Salad Bowl

• Create a salad bowl by adding chopped lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and chicken. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce for a refreshing twist.

Topped on Flatbread

• Spread some flatbread with creamy garlic sauce, layer with chicken and garnish with herbs. This makes for an excellent appetizer or snack.

How to Perfect Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Making perfect Chicken Shawarma requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness.
• Use high heat: Cooking at high heat gives the chicken that desirable char while keeping it juicy inside.
• Rest before slicing: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes; this helps retain moisture when you slice it.
• Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences; more paprika adds warmth!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Pairing side dishes can enhance your Chicken Shawarma experience. Here are some great options:

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A fresh mix of parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice adds brightness to your meal.
2. Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip is perfect for spreading on pita or enjoying as a side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complements the flavors of shawarma beautifully.
4. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cool cucumber salad mixed with yogurt provides a refreshing contrast to the spices in shawarma.
5. Chickpea Fritters: Crispy chickpea fritters offer a delicious crunch that pairs well with the tender chicken.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred adds a touch of sweetness that balances savory notes perfectly.
7. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad made with crispy pita chips lends texture and zest alongside your shawarma dish.
8. Baba Ganoush: Smoky eggplant dip adds depth and pairs wonderfully as a spread or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can impact flavor and texture.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes helps infuse flavors. For best results, consider marinating overnight.

• Skipping the Garlic Sauce: Many people skip this step, but the creamy garlic sauce is what makes this dish special. Don’t neglect it; make sure to prepare it fresh.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for juicy results.

• Ignoring Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality spices or oils can dull flavors. Opt for fresh spices and high-quality olive oil to enhance your dish.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold chicken produces uneven cooking. Let your chicken come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure the sauce is stored separately if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat wrapped shawarma on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce, here are some common questions and answers.

Can I use different meats for Chicken Shawarma?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb to create different flavors while keeping it delicious.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Chicken Shawarma gluten-free, serve it with gluten-free pita or over rice instead of traditional flatbreads that contain wheat.

Can I use store-bought garlic sauce?

While you can use store-bought garlic sauce, making it fresh enhances flavor and allows you to adjust ingredients to your liking.

What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?

Serve this dish with a side of rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with hummus and tabbouleh.

How long does it take to make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

The total time is about 25 minutes including prep and cooking, making it perfect for a quick dinner option!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a staple in your home!