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Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Close-up of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce in pita bread, showcasing the juicy chicken and creamy sauce.

A recipe for homemade chicken shawarma served with a creamy garlic sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Garlic Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pita bread, for serving
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
  4. Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
  6. While the chicken bakes, prepare the garlic sauce by mixing mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl.
  7. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken thinly.
  8. Warm the pita bread.
  9. Fill the pita bread with sliced chicken, garlic sauce, and your desired toppings.

Notes

  • For a more authentic shawarma flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper for your preferred level of spice.
  • The garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken shawarma, garlic sauce, middle eastern food, homemade shawarma, chicken recipe