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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
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This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce brings the bold flavors of Middle Eastern street food to your kitchen. Tender, spiced chicken is wrapped in warm pita and drizzled with a tangy, garlicky sauce—quick, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Shawarma:

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For Serving:

  • Pita bread or flatbreads
  • Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or lettuce

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken (15 min + 1 hr rest)

  • In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken (15 min)

  • Grill or Pan-Sear: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C) and slightly charred.
  • Bake Option: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce (5 min)

  • Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

  • Warm pita bread, then layer with chicken, fresh veggies, and a generous drizzle of garlic sauce.
  • Fold tightly and serve immediately.

Notes

✔ Marinate longer (up to 24 hours) for maximum flavor.
✔ Char the chicken slightly for authentic texture.
✔ Add pickles or hot sauce for extra tang/heat.
✔ Meal prep friendly—store cooked chicken & sauce separately for 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipes.swedishinarabic.net/chicken-shawarma-with-creamy-garlic-sauce-a-flavorful-middle-eastern-delight/