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Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

A simple and flavorful chicken shawarma recipe served with garlic sauce, perfect for family-style meals.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless Trim excess fat and pat dry for better browning.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Use extra virgin olive oil for added flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Toast in a dry pan for a deeper aroma.
  • 2 teaspoons ground paprika Sweet or smoked paprika can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric Use fresh turmeric powder for a brighter hue.
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander Grind whole seeds for more fragrance.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust after tasting.
  • to taste none pepper Use as per preference.
Wrap Ingredients
  • 4 pieces pita breads Warm them briefly for better folding.
  • 1 cup lettuce, shredded Romaine or green leaf recommended.
  • 1 piece tomato, diced Choose a ripe, firm one.
  • 1/2 piece cucumber, sliced English cucumbers need no peeling.
  • 1/2 piece red onion, thinly sliced Soak in cold water for a milder bite.
  • 1/2 cup garlic sauce Use homemade or jarred for convenience.

Method
 

Marinating Chicken
  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Chicken
  1. Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  2. Remove chicken and let rest for a few minutes, then slice.
Preparing Pita
  1. Warm pita breads on the grill or in a skillet.
Assembling Shawarma
  1. Assemble shawarma by adding sliced chicken, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion to pita.
  2. Drizzle garlic sauce on top and serve.

Notes

Leftovers store well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently for the best results. Involve kids in wrapping to reduce mealtime fuss. Can also adapt for air fryer cooking.