Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A close-up of a golden-brown chicken shawarma wrap, sliced to reveal tender shredded chicken inside, topped with fresh herbs and drizzled with creamy garlic sauce. The wrap is presented on a rustic wooden plate, with colorful side vegetables and a small bowl of extra sauce in the background.

Bold Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Discover the bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with our Bold Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma topped with a creamy garlic sauce. This flavorful dish features tender, marinated chicken cooked to perfection, topped with a luscious garlic dip, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful party spread, this shawarma recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine olive oil, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create the marinade.
  2. Thoroughly coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor infusion.
  3. Cook the marinated chicken in a hot oven, grill, or cast-iron skillet until fully cooked and slightly charred, about 6-8 minutes per side. Rest before slicing into thin strips.
  4. Prepare the garlic sauce by mixing Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro.
  5. Warm pita bread or flatbreads. Fill with sliced chicken, drizzle with garlic sauce, and add fresh toppings like cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and pickles.
  6. Serve with vegetable salads or roasted vegetables for a complete Middle Eastern meal. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for optimal flavor, refrigerate overnight.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful shawarma, but chicken breasts can be substituted with careful cooking.
  • Add fresh herbs to the garlic sauce for extra flavor complexity.
  • Serve with a side of fresh vegetables or traditional Middle Eastern sides for an authentic experience.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling, Pan-frying, Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Dairy-Free option available

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 large pita wrap
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Find it online: https://www.serenarecipes.com/bold-middle-eastern-chicken-shawarma-with-creamy-garlic-sauce/