Chicken Shawarma with Garlic: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor

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Chicken Shawarma with Garlic is a delightful dish that brings bold Middle Eastern flavors right to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy, yogurt-marinated chicken thighs, seasoned with aromatic spices, and wrapped in warm flatbread with a creamy garlic sauce. The result is a tender, flavorful meal that surpasses any takeout you’ve ever had. The perfect balance of spices and the richness of garlic sauce make this dish a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouthwatering meal!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Bold flavors that excite your palate.
Easy to make at home, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy option due to the use of yogurt and lean chicken.
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Can be customized with various toppings.
A fantastic choice for gatherings and family meals.

This recipe combines the essence of Garlic Chicken Shawarma with the convenience of an Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic recipe, making it a staple in any home kitchen. It fits well within the Middle Eastern cuisine category, ensuring authenticity with every bite.

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic

Gather these items:

2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon white vinegar
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
1 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
4 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Chopped cucumbers
Shredded lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Pickled turnips or onions

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and all spices until smooth.
Step 2: Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook thighs for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 4: Grill or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Step 5: In a bowl, combine mayo or yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Chill until serving.
Step 6: Spread garlic sauce on warm pita or flatbread. Add sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickles. Drizzle with more sauce and wrap tightly.
Step 7: Serve warm or wrap in foil for a portable meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma with Garlic

Keep these in mind:

Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Feel free to experiment with spices to suit your taste.
For a gluten-free option, use lettuce wraps instead of flatbread.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic

This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways:

As a wrap with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce.
On a platter with rice, salad, and garlic dip.
As a part of a Mediterranean feast with other dishes.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Shawarma with Garlic

To store leftovers, keep the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This makes for an excellent meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shawarma with Garlic

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic?

The key to perfect Chicken Shawarma is marinating the chicken long enough, ideally overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate and infuse the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful pieces.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken a day in advance. Marinating overnight enhances the flavor, making it ready to cook whenever you are.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Shawarma with Garlic?

To avoid dry chicken, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C). Also, let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices.

Variations of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic You Can Try

Here are a few delicious variations to consider:

Spicy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Replace mayo with yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Grilled Chicken Shawarma with Garlic: Grill the chicken for smoky flavor.

These variations allow for customization while enjoying the core flavors of this beloved dish.

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor - Chicken Shawarma with Garlic - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Creamy Pumpkin Soup.

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor - Chicken Shawarma with Garlic - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, visit Healthline.

To learn more about Middle Eastern cuisine, check out this guide on Middle Eastern cuisine.