Description
Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Juicy, spice-marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a tangy, garlicky sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for quick dinners, backyard gatherings, or meal prep, this dish promises a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Enjoy it in warm pita wraps, over rice, or as part of a fresh salad bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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
- Warm pita or flatbread
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled onions (optional)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, and salt until smooth.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Marinating the chicken longer enhances its flavor and tenderness. Adjust spices according to your preference; feel free to add more paprika for extra warmth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.