Description
Juicy, flavor-packed Garlic Chicken Shawarma marinated in aromatic Middle Eastern spices, garlic, and lemon grilled or roasted to perfection and served with warm pita, tahini, or garlic sauce.
Ingredients
2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Warm pita bread, for serving
Garlic sauce or tahini sauce, for serving
Fresh herbs and pickles, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, and all spices until smooth.
2. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat grill, skillet, or oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. If grilling, cook chicken over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
6. If roasting, spread chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
7. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
8. Serve in warm pita bread with garlic sauce, tahini, fresh herbs, and pickles.
Notes
Marinate overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.
For extra char, finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes.
Serve over rice or salad for a lighter, gluten-free meal.
Pairs beautifully with garlic yogurt sauce, tzatziki, or hummus.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled or Roasted
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap or bowl
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Keywords: garlic chicken shawarma, shawarma wrap, Middle Eastern chicken, grilled chicken, street food