Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food right into your home kitchen, this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe is your golden ticket. Juicy, perfectly spiced chicken marinated in a mix of warm, aromatic spices then grilled to tender perfection meets a luscious, creamy garlic sauce that packs a punch. Every bite bursts with fragrance and zest, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and exciting, making it a personal favorite that feels like a warm hug from the inside.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce involves everyday ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the bold flavors, tender texture, and vibrant color that make this recipe shine.

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts: Opt for thighs for juicier results or breasts for a leaner option, cut into strips for quick, even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps infuse flavor and keeps the chicken moist during marination and cooking.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy base flavor that’s essential in shawarma spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and a vibrant red hue to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Offers a gentle bitterness and the classic golden color you expect.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a hint of citrus brightness and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Introduces a sweet warmth that rounds out the spice mix beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for pungency and to layer in garlic flavor both in marinade and sauce.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lends acidity to tenderize the chicken and brighten the overall dish.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: The fundamental seasonings that balance and enhance every other flavor.
• 1 cup mayonnaise (for the garlic sauce): Provides a creamy base that carries the garlic flavor smoothly.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (for the garlic sauce): Packs a robust punch, elevating the sauce to iconic status.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for the garlic sauce): Cuts through the richness, adding that perfect zing.
• Salt to taste (for the garlic sauce): Brings all the ingredients in the sauce into harmony.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by creating the magic marinade that gives Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce its unforgettable flavor. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss in the chicken strips, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated in this fragrant blend. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight if you can plan ahead—this allows the spices to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy tender bites bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Pan

While the chicken marinates, get your grill or non-stick pan ready. Heat it over medium-high to ensure a nice sear that locks in juices. A few drops of oil in the pan can prevent sticking while also helping build a beautiful, golden crust that enhances both texture and taste.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken strips on your preheated surface and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken turns gorgeous golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step is where the aromatics really shine as the spices toast slightly, giving you that signature shawarma char.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whip up the garlicky sauce that puts this dish over the top. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your preference—if you’re a garlic lover like me, a little extra never hurts! This sauce is delightfully creamy and tangy, providing a cooling contrast to the spiced chicken.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest briefly to keep it juicy. Then slice it into bite-sized pieces. Serve your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce wrapped in warm pita bread or simply plated with your favorite accompaniments. Don’t forget to drizzle generously with the garlic sauce—you want every savory morsel perfectly coated in that creamy, zesty goodness.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the dish by adding brightness and texture contrast. Think chopped fresh parsley, thinly sliced red onions, or a sprinkle of sumac for a touch of tang. Pickled turnips are a classic pairing, offering a sharp, crunchy bite that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with light, fresh sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or a bowl of fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon and herbs. Roasted vegetables and fragrant basmati rice also complement the bold flavors of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like switching things up? Serve the chicken over a bed of greens for a protein-packed salad, or pile it into a wrap with hummus and pickled veggies for a portable, flavorful lunch. You can even top flatbreads with the chicken and drizzle on the garlic sauce as a quick and delicious appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the chicken and garlic sauce separate if possible to maintain the freshest texture, then combine just before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked, cooled chicken shawarma in sealed bags or containers for up to 2 months. The garlic sauce doesn’t freeze well due to its mayonnaise base, so make a fresh batch when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the ideal texture. Reapply the garlic sauce after warming for that fresh flavor burst.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine if you prefer a leaner option, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, especially after marinating and grilling.

Is the garlic sauce very strong in flavor?

The garlic sauce is definitely garlicky and bold, but balanced with creamy mayonnaise and lemon juice, making it smooth and tangy rather than overpowering. You can always adjust the garlic to your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with marinated mushrooms or tofu to recreate the texture and absorb all those fragrant shawarma spices for a delicious vegetarian twist.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

At least 30 minutes is great for a quick flavor boost, but marinating overnight lets the spices penetrate deeply, resulting in even richer taste and tenderness.

What are some good sides to serve with Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

Fresh salads, pickled vegetables, couscous, roasted veggies, or warm pita bread make fantastic sides that complement and round out the meal perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone craving bold, home-cooked flavors with minimal fuss. Its incredible spice blend and rich garlic sauce transform simple ingredients into something spectacular, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish holds such a special place in my heart—and I promise it’ll become one of your favorites too.

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