Some evenings, the thought of grabbing fast food becomes all too tempting, especially after a long day. But what if I told you that recreating the vibrant experience of a Lebanese market in your own kitchen is just a recipe away? Enter my Authentic Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce! This dish transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering Middle Eastern delight that’s not just restaurant-worthy but also incredibly easy to prepare. With its stunning blend of spices and that creamy garlic sauce that’s oh-so-dippable, you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights. Curious to find out how you can make this show-stopping dish at home? Let’s dive in!

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Why is Chicken Shawarma So Delicious?

Bold spices: The vibrant blend of cumin, coriander, and cardamom infuses your chicken with exotic flavors that transport you straight to the streets of Lebanon.
Creamy garlic sauce: This sauce isn’t just a topping; it elevates each bite, ensuring you always taste that zesty kick.
Easily adaptable: Want a spicy kick? Just add more cayenne or harissa! Feel like going vegetarian? Swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite veggies.
Perfect for meal prep: Make your life easier by whipping this dish up ahead of time—both the chicken and sauce store beautifully. Enjoy this delightful dish at home while impressing family and friends, or serve with warm pita and freshly made tabbouleh for a complete experience!

Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce Ingredients

Unleash the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these essential ingredients!

For the Marinade

Greek Yogurt – Tenderizes the chicken and acts as the marinade base; opt for full-fat for a richer taste.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in marination; can be substituted with any neutral oil.
Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance the flavors; fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
Minced Garlic – Essential for flavor in both marinade and sauce; always remove green sprouts to avoid bitterness.

For the Spice Blend

Cumin – Imparts warm, earthy notes that are essential for a classic shawarma taste.
Coriander – Adds a citrusy zing that complements the spice mix brilliantly.
Cardamom – Delivers a hint of sweetness and complexity; freshly toasted enhances flavor.
Smoked Paprika – Provides a mild smokiness; perfect for that street-food essence.
Turmeric – Adds color and depth of flavor; a little goes a long way!
Cinnamon – Offers warmth and balancing sweetness; enhances the overall spice blend.
Cayenne Pepper – Adds heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

For the Main Dish

Chicken Thighs – Preferred for juiciness and flavor; can also substitute with lamb or beef.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; use kosher salt for easy measuring.

For the Garlic Sauce

Ice Water – Helps achieve the fluffy consistency of garlic sauce; necessary for that perfect dip!

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting mouthwatering Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor! Enjoy experimenting with this versatile dish that’s a feast for the senses.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine full-fat Greek yogurt, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, emulsified mixture. This yogurt base acts as the tenderizing marinade for your Chicken Shawarma, infusing it with flavor. Aim to mix for about 2 minutes until fully blended and creamy.

Step 2: Incorporate the Spices
Add minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the marinade. Stir thoroughly until all spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, creating a fragrant and flavorful paste. Take a moment to inhale those wonderful Middle Eastern aromas and enjoy the anticipation of what’s to come!

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, allowing the marinade to adhere properly. If desired, cut the thighs into smaller pieces for faster cooking. Place the chicken in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or, better yet, overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce
To create the creamy garlic sauce, add minced garlic and a pinch of salt to a food processor. Pulse until the garlic is finely chopped. Gradually drizzle in olive oil and lemon juice while the processor runs, allowing the mixture to emulsify into a thick sauce. After achieving your desired consistency, blend in a little ice water until it reaches a fluffy, dip-worthy texture.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to get hot for about 2-3 minutes. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes on one side until you see a beautiful caramelization—a golden brown crust that adds flavor. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Rest and Slice the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes; this helps retain its juiciness. Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken into thin strips, maximizing the tender texture and flavor of your Chicken Shawarma.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Warm some pita bread on the stovetop or in the microwave for a few seconds, then fill it with slices of the chicken and a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings, such as fresh herbs, pickles, or sliced tomatoes. Your homemade Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is ready to be savored!

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Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Chicken Shawarma to suit your taste preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free marinade option. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that compliments the spices beautifully.
Spicy Twist: Increase the cayenne pepper or mix in some harissa for a fiery kick that will awaken your taste buds. This adds an exciting depth of flavor to every bite.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for roasted vegetables or marinated tofu. This transforms your shawarma into a hearty vegetarian dish that is equally satisfying.
Lemon Zest Boost: Grate fresh lemon zest into the marinade for an extra zing. This brightens the flavors, adding a refreshing twist that complements the garlic sauce perfectly.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the garlic sauce. This enhances the freshness and adds a beautiful green vibrancy.
Smoky Flavor: Infuse your marinade with a dash of liquid smoke or more smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor. Perfect for those who crave an extra layer of complexity.
Honey Sweetness: Drizzle a bit of honey into the garlic sauce. This subtle sweetness balances the savory elements, making every bite a delightful experience.
Crunchy Toppings: Finish off your shawarma with crispy fried onions or toasted pine nuts. These toppings add a lovely crunch and additional texture to your dish.

Embrace these variations to create your unique Chicken Shawarma masterpiece! And if you’re looking for more flavor inspiration, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken or dive into some exciting Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken for the family!

Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma

Marinade Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices and yogurt to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender, juicy chicken shawarma.
Use a Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is well-heated before adding the chicken; this creates a beautiful caramelization that enhances the flavor of your Chicken Shawarma.
Don’t Skip the Ice Water: When making the garlic sauce, adding ice water helps achieve a fluffy consistency. Adding it slowly allows you to control the texture perfectly.
Resting is Key: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps all those delicious juices locked in, preventing dryness.
Translate to Variations: Feel free to experiment! Use lamb or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile, or try adding more spices to your garlic sauce to elevate your Chicken Shawarma even further.

What to Serve with Authentic Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Enhance your dining experience by exploring the perfect companions for your delectable Middle Eastern feast.

Warm Pita Bread: The soft, warm pockets of pita are perfect for scooping up chicken and garlic sauce, creating a delightful handheld meal.
Fresh Tabbouleh Salad: This vibrant salad of parsley, tomatoes, and mint adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich shawarma beautifully. The herbs brighten every bite!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, these tender vegetables provide earthy flavors and an excellent contrast to the chicken’s juiciness.
Hummus: Creamy and smooth, this garlic-infused dip pairs perfectly with pita and adds depth to your meal. Its nutty notes balance the spices in the shawarma.
Cucumber and Yogurt Salad: This refreshing dish cools the palate and adds a creamy texture, making it a fantastic match for the savory chicken.
Mint Tea: A traditional Middle Eastern drink, its sweet and minty flavor perfectly cleanses the palate after each succulent bite of shawarma.
Baklava: For dessert, this sweet pastry filled with nuts brings a hint of warmth and spice, echoing the flavors of your shawarma meal while satisfying your sweet tooth.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s well-sealed to maintain its tender juiciness.

Garlic Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce can be refrigerated for up to 1 month. Store it separately from the chicken to keep both flavors distinct.

Freezer: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove excess air for optimal preservation.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm. This ensures your Chicken Shawarma comes back to life with that savory goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce are ideal for meal prep, making your evenings hassle-free! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Prepare the garlic sauce ahead of time as well; it keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 1 month when stored in an airtight container. To maintain the quality, ensure you pat the chicken dry before marinating and refrigerate the garlic sauce promptly after making. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken as directed and whisk the garlic sauce briefly to restore its creamy texture. Enjoy the rich flavors without any last-minute stress!

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Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for shawarma?
For the best results, I recommend using chicken thighs because they provide more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. This results in tender, delicious shawarma. However, you can also substitute chicken breasts, lamb, or beef if you prefer a different protein!

How do I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?
Store your leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s well-sealed to maintain its juiciness. For optimal freshness, store the garlic sauce separately in the fridge, where it will keep for up to 1 month.

Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma and garlic sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. For the garlic sauce, freeze it in ice cube trays, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container upon solidifying. This allows you to thaw only what you need!

What should I do if my garlic sauce is too thin?
If your garlic sauce ends up being too thin, don’t worry! To thicken, add more oil while blending or incorporate a bit of Greek yogurt to achieve the creamy consistency you desire. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving, which can also help it thicken up slightly.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the Greek yogurt in the marinade with coconut yogurt or a non-dairy yogurt alternative. Ensure that any other ingredients (like the garlic sauce) are also dairy-free if you are following a strict dairy-free diet. This delicious flip allows you and your friends to enjoy Chicken Shawarma without the dairy!

What vegetables can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
I often serve my Chicken Shawarma with a delightful array of fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce. You can also add pickled veggies or a side of tabbouleh for a refreshing contrast to the spices. The more the merrier—so feel free to get creative with your platter!