Why Make This Recipe
Shawarma-style chicken is not just a delightful dish, it is a journey into a world of flavors. Originating from the Middle East, shawarma is traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but this home recipe simplifies the process while keeping that unmistakable taste. Here are a few reasons to make this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This dish is straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The unique combination of spices creates a deliciously aromatic chicken that will impress your family and friends.
- Versatile: You can serve it in a wrap, as a salad topping, or with sides like fries and slaw. This flexibility caters to various palates and dietary preferences.
- Healthy Option: By using lean chicken breast and plenty of veggies in the slaw, it can be a healthier option than fast food.
How to Make Shawarma-Style Chicken
Cooking shawarma-style chicken is an enjoyable experience that brings the lively flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen. Follow these easy steps to make this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fries
- Slaw (cabbage and carrots mix)
Directions
Prepare the Marinade: Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are fully blended. The oil serves as a base that will soak into the chicken, while the spices will create that incredible shawarma flavor you’re looking for.
Marinate the Chicken: Next, take the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Make sure every inch is covered to ensure maximum flavor. After coating, place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for a few hours or overnight will deepen the flavors even more.
Cook the Chicken: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook each breast for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for the same time on the other side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken to make sure it is no longer pink in the center.
Prepare the Fries: While the chicken is cooking, you can get started on the fries. Cook them according to package instructions, whether you are baking, frying, or air-frying them. Crispy fries make for a great accompaniment to the juicy chicken.
Assemble the Dish: Once your chicken is cooked and the fries are ready, it’s time to put everything together. Slice the chicken into thin strips and serve it on a plate alongside the crispy fries. Don’t forget to add a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side and a serving of slaw for a refreshing crunch.
How to Serve Shawarma-Style Chicken
There are many ways to enjoy shawarma-style chicken. Here are some serving ideas:
- Wraps: Use pita or flatbread to wrap the chicken, adding tzatziki, slaw, and any other favorite vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers for a complete meal.
- Salad Bowls: Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens, topped with slaw and a drizzle of tzatziki for a lighter option.
- Platter Style: Present the sliced chicken, fries, tzatziki sauce, and slaw on a large platter. This is perfect for gatherings, allowing everyone to build their own plate.
- With Rice: Serve the chicken with a side of rice or couscous for a heartier meal.
How to Store Shawarma-Style Chicken
If you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, storing shawarma-style chicken is easy:
- In the Fridge: Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
- For Longer Storage: If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, use a skillet over low heat for even warming, or you can zap it in the microwave. If it appears dry, add a little water or broth to help retain moisture.
Tips to Make Shawarma-Style Chicken
- Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb. Try overnight for the best results.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can elevate the flavor of the tzatziki. Consider adding chopped herbs for a fresher taste.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While the listed spices work great, feel free to play around by adding chili powder for heat or coriander for a different twist.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Avoid overcooking the chicken as it can become dry. Monitor the cooking closely, and always let it rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:
- Vegetarian Shawarma: Swap the chicken for marinated tofu or eggplant and cook it using the same method. Use the same spices for that shawarma flavor.
- Spicier Version: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade if you like heat.
- Different Protein: You can substitute chicken with beef or lamb pieces, adjusting the cooking time as necessary since they may require longer cooking to reach the proper temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully with this marinade and tend to be juicier than breasts. Just check that they reach the same safe temperature when cooked.
2. What can I use instead of tzatziki sauce?
If tzatziki isn’t available, consider a simple yogurt sauce with garlic and lemon juice, or even hummus, as tasty alternatives.
3. Is it okay to grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a great smoky flavor to the chicken, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and watch out for flare-ups.
By following these steps, tips, and variations, you will create a delicious shawarma-style chicken that can become a regular part of your meal rotations, bringing a taste of the Middle East to your home kitchen. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Print
Shawarma-Style Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and flavorful shawarma-style chicken recipe that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fries
- Slaw (cabbage and carrots mix)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl and mixing well.
- Marinate the chicken breasts by coating them thoroughly with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken on a preheated grill or skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the fries according to package instructions while the chicken is cooking.
- Assemble the dish by slicing the cooked chicken into thin strips and serving it with fries, tzatziki sauce, and slaw.
Notes
For best flavor, marinate the chicken longer, and consider using fresh herbs in the tzatziki.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: shawarma, chicken, Middle Eastern, healthy dinner, easy recipe