Chicken Shawarma

5 from 2 votes

Chicken Shawarma combines tender, spiced chicken with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in warm pita bread. This flavorful Middle Eastern dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that your family and friends will love.

Prep Time15

Cook Time25

Total Time40

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Servings:

Calories: 535kcal

Author: Joanna Cismaru

Equipment

13-inch by 9-inch Baking Sheet

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 pounds chicken thighs boneless skinless
3 tablespoons olive oil
juice of 1 lemon
4 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for extra heat

For Serving:

pita bread or flatbreads
tomatoes sliced
cucumbers sliced
red onion sliced
fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
tzatziki sauce or garlic sauce

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges. If you want extra char, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice it into thin strips.
Serve the chicken slices in warm pita bread or flatbreads, topped with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, fresh parsley or cilantro, and a generous drizzle of tzatziki sauce or garlic sauce.

Notes

Amp the Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the assembled shawarma for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
Keep Pita Warm: To ensure your pita bread stays soft and pliable, wrap them in foil before baking or warming.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces like tahini or a spicy harissa.
Grill Option: For a smoky twist, try grilling the marinated chicken instead of baking it.

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