The tantalizing aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill evokes memories of summer evenings, gathering with friends, and savoring delicious, vibrant flavors. Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience that can be prepared in about 2 hours, including marinating time. The combination of spices ensures that every bite is full of flavor, while the creamy garlic sauce adds the perfect finishing touch.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings with friends, or meal prep for the week. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance for even deeper flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The marinated chicken thighs become incredibly juicy and flavorful when grilled.
- The garlic sauce is creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to make.
- Wrapping everything in pita bread creates a delightful mix of textures.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be served with various fresh vegetables.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this delicious dish.
For the Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
For Serving
- Pita bread or wraps
- Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Greek yogurt for plain yogurt
- Lemon juice for lime juice
- Tahini for a nut butter (like almond)
- Chicken thighs can be replaced with breasts
How to Make It
Here’s how to prepare Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce.
Marinate
- Combine: In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, allspice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Cook
- Preheat: Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Rest
- Remove: Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest before slicing it into thin strips.
Prepare Sauce
- Mix: For the garlic sauce, combine minced garlic, yogurt, tahini, and lemon juice in a bowl and mix until smooth.
Serve
- Assemble: Serve the chicken in pita bread or wraps with fresh vegetables and drizzle the garlic sauce on top.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on low for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture.
- Adjust the garlic in the sauce to suit your taste preference.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken (165°F).
- Serve with extra lemon wedges for added brightness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of hummus or tabbouleh for a complete meal.
- Enjoy on a warm summer night with friends.
- Perfect for meal prep—great for lunches throughout the week.
