There’s a certain magic that happens when you take a bite of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. The succulent chicken, marinated to perfection, dances on your palate as the garlic sauce envelops it like a warm hug on a cold day. The spices mingle together, creating an explosion of flavors that’ll make you wonder why you ever settled for boring meals. For more inspiration, check out this great dinner options recipe.
I remember the first time I had Chicken Shawarma at a tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant during my travels. The aroma wafted through the air, pulling me in like a moth to a flame. My taste buds were singing and my heart was doing an excited little jig as I devoured every morsel. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that unforgettable experience at home—without the passport fees.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners enjoyable
- The flavor profile is rich, combining savory and zesty elements that excite your taste buds
- Visually appealing, it presents beautifully on any plate or wrap
- You can customize it endlessly—add veggies, switch sauces, or serve it in wraps or bowls!
My friends still rave about the time I made this dish for them; they said it was better than takeout!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch recipes recipe.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your crowd size for maximum satisfaction.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they bring a robust flavor that dried garlic simply cannot match.
Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth and depth; always choose fresh ground for the best flavor.
Paprika: I prefer smoked paprika here; it imparts a subtle smokiness that’ll elevate your shawarma.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish, enhancing all those lovely flavors.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for marinating; it helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other ingredients; don’t skip these basics!
Yogurt (for sauce): Greek yogurt creates a creamy base that’s perfect for balancing spices in your garlic sauce.
Lemon Zest (for sauce): A sprinkle of lemon zest in the sauce adds an aromatic twist that’s simply irresistible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Marinate Your Chicken: Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss in your chicken breasts until they’re well-coated and fragrant—let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook each marinated chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell divine!
Rest and Slice the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing it into thin strips. This allows juices to redistribute—trust me; it’s worth it.
Prepare Your Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, mix yogurt with minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth—the creaminess will perfectly complement your savory chicken.
Assemble Your Shawarma!: Grab some pita bread or wraps! Layer sliced chicken with fresh veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers. Drizzle generously with garlic sauce—go ahead; you know you want to!
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your shawarma with an extra side of garlic sauce—you’ll thank yourself later! Dig in while it’s fresh for the ultimate experience.
Now you’re ready to impress friends or family with homemade Chicken Shawarma that tastes like it’s straight from an exotic street vendor!
You Must Know
- This chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience
- The succulent chicken paired with creamy garlic sauce will transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East
- The aromas coming from your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour. Sauté it until golden brown before assembling your wraps for a delicious, juicy filling.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for beef or lamb and add toppings like pickles, tomatoes, or lettuce. Customize it to fit your cravings!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor immensely, making every bite unforgettable
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste and don’t be afraid to experiment with spices to suit your palate
Sometimes I whip this dish up when friends come over, and their smiles say it all—nothing beats homemade shawarma!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought garlic sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought garlic sauce can save time but making your own adds a personal touch.
What spices are essential for chicken shawarma?
Cumin, paprika, turmeric, and coriander are key to getting that authentic shawarma flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pita or wrap alternatives to enjoy without worries.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful dish that brings the taste of Middle Eastern streets right to your home. Tender, marinated chicken is seared to perfection and paired with a creamy garlic sauce, creating an irresistible combination that will delight your taste buds. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings and sauces. Get ready to enjoy a culinary adventure without the need for a passport!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (for sauce)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for sauce)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Cook each chicken breast for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Mix yogurt with minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Serve sliced chicken in pita or wraps with fresh veggies and generous drizzles of garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
