Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Pita bread, for serving; Chopped lettuce, for serving; Diced tomatoes, for serving; Diced cucumbers, for serving; Pickled turnips, for serving (optional); For the Garlic Sauce:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon water; Pinch of salt

Author: Tessa

Published: February 27, 2025

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Chicken shawarma with garlic sauce has been a staple in my kitchen ever since I first tasted it during a trip to the Middle East years ago. I was instantly captivated by the vibrant spices, the tender, juicy chicken, and that incredibly creamy, tangy garlic sauce that just ties everything together. It felt like a culinary revelation! Since then, I’ve made it my mission to recreate that authentic street food experience right in my own home, tweaking and perfecting the recipe over countless attempts.

This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a journey of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. What I love most about this particular chicken shawarma with garlic sauce recipe is how approachable it is for home cooks, without compromising on that crave-worthy taste. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve such a dynamic and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling markets of the Middle East.

Chicken shawarma with garlic sauce - detail 1

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

You’re going to fall head over heels for this chicken shawarma with garlic sauce recipe because it hits all the right notes for a fantastic meal. It’s incredibly satisfying, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly simple to put together. Here’s why it’ll become a regular in your rotation:

Quick & Easy: While there’s a marinating step, the active cooking time is minimal, making it perfect for weeknights.
Authentic Taste: My spice blend and garlic sauce recipe truly capture the classic shawarma flavors you love.
Versatile Meal: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests – everyone loves a good shawarma!
Fresh & Flavorful: You control the ingredients, ensuring the freshest, most delicious outcome every time.

The Irresistible Flavor of Homemade Chicken Shawarma

The magic of homemade chicken shawarma lies in the carefully balanced marinade. Each bite brings a symphony of aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric, creating a warmth that’s both exotic and comforting. Paired with the zing of lemon and the creamy, garlicky sauce, it’s a flavor combination that’s truly addictive and far superior to anything store-bought.

Essential Equipment for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Making delicious chicken shawarma with garlic sauce at home doesn’t require a commercial kitchen, just a few key pieces of equipment. You’ll definitely want a sturdy, large mixing bowl for marinating your chicken, ensuring all those wonderful spices get thoroughly distributed. A good quality, heavy-bottomed skillet or a grill pan is crucial for getting that perfect char and tenderness on your chicken.

For the garlic sauce, a small whisk will come in handy for achieving that smooth, creamy consistency. And of course, a sharp knife and cutting board are essential for prepping your chicken and all those fresh toppings.

Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

To create this incredible chicken shawarma with garlic sauce, you’ll need a collection of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. I’ve broken it down into sections so you can easily gather everything you need. Quality ingredients truly make a difference here, especially with the chicken and the fresh vegetables.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
Pita bread, for serving
Chopped lettuce, for serving
Diced tomatoes, for serving
Diced cucumbers, for serving
Pickled turnips, for serving (optional)

Chicken Shawarma Marinade Ingredients

The heart of our chicken shawarma flavor lies in this vibrant marinade. You’ll need 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for the tangy base. Then come the spices: 1 tablespoon each of ground cumin and paprika, 1 teaspoon each of turmeric powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, plus 1/2 teaspoon each of black pepper and salt. These are all common pantry items you likely have on hand!

Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients

This creamy garlic sauce is the perfect counterpoint to the seasoned chicken. For this, you’ll need 1/2 cup mayonnaise as your base. Fresh is best, so grab 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced finely. A tablespoon of lemon juice adds brightness, and 1 tablespoon of water helps achieve the perfect consistency. Finish it off with a small pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Fresh Toppings and Serving Suggestions

No chicken shawarma is complete without fresh, crisp toppings! I always recommend having plenty of chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and diced cucumbers on hand. For an extra authentic touch, don’t forget to include some pickled turnips – they add a fantastic crunch and tang. And of course, warm pita bread is essential for wrapping up all these delicious components.

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

Now for the fun part: bringing all these incredible flavors together! Making this chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is a straightforward process, but paying attention to each step will ensure you get that authentic taste and perfect texture every time. I’ve broken it down into manageable parts, so you can easily follow along and create a truly delicious meal.

Preparing the Chicken Shawarma Marinade

The secret to tender, flavorful chicken shawarma starts with a good marinade. In a large bowl, combine your thinly sliced chicken thighs with the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and all the dry spices: cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly, making sure every piece of chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor penetration, I highly recommend marinating for 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you have the time.

Crafting the Perfect Garlic Sauce

While your chicken is marinating, you can whip up the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and water. Add a pinch of salt to start. Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Give it a taste, and don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning. You might want a little more garlic, a touch more lemon, or another pinch of salt to suit your preference. Once it’s perfect, cover it and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

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Cooking Your Chicken Shawarma

When you’re ready to cook, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a good sear. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. If your pan isn’t big enough, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can steam the chicken instead of searing it. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through, beautifully browned, and slightly charred in places. Once done, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving.

Assembling Your Chicken Shawarma Wraps

With your chicken cooked and your sauce ready, it’s time to assemble! Warm your pita bread according to the package instructions—I usually just pop mine in a dry skillet for a minute or two per side. Lay a warm pita flat, then spread a generous amount of that creamy garlic sauce over it. Pile on a portion of the cooked chicken, then add your fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and those optional but highly recommended pickled turnips. Now, simply fold or roll your pita bread to create a delicious wrap. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Achieving truly exceptional chicken shawarma with garlic sauce at home comes down to a few key details. Don’t skimp on the marinating time; that’s where all the magic happens for tender, flavorful chicken. When cooking, resist the urge to overcrowd your pan. Giving the chicken space allows it to sear properly, developing those delicious charred edges instead of steaming. Also, taste your garlic sauce and adjust the lemon or salt to your liking – it’s all about personal preference here!

Enhancing Your Chicken Shawarma Flavor

To really amp up your chicken shawarma, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a subtle kick, or a touch of allspice for even deeper Middle Eastern notes. A little extra fresh garlic in the marinade never hurt anyone either! For an added layer of flavor, try finishing your cooked chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Common Questions About Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

I often get asked a few common questions about this chicken shawarma with garlic sauce recipe, so I wanted to address them here. These tips will help you tailor the recipe to your needs and preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your homemade shawarma experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

Can I make chicken shawarma in advance?

Absolutely! This chicken shawarma is fantastic for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance for maximum flavor. Cooked chicken shawarma and the garlic sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling your wraps.

What can I substitute for chicken thighs in chicken shawarma?

While chicken thighs are my top recommendation for their juiciness and flavor in chicken shawarma, you can definitely substitute them. Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well, but be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out faster. Beef or lamb can also be used, though they might require slightly longer cooking times and a different marinade balance for traditional beef shawarma.

How spicy can I make my chicken shawarma with garlic sauce?

You can easily adjust the heat level of your chicken shawarma with garlic sauce! For the chicken, add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. As for the garlic sauce, if you want more of a kick, you can increase the amount of minced garlic or even add a tiny bit of sriracha or chili paste for a spicy garlic sauce variation.

Estimated Nutritional Information

Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this chicken shawarma with garlic sauce. Please remember these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and any additions or substitutions you make. It’s a general guide to help you understand the nutritional content of your delicious homemade meal.

Share Your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Experience

I absolutely adore hearing from you! If you try this chicken shawarma with garlic sauce recipe, please come back and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Did you make any fun adjustments? Share your photos on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see your creations! Your feedback and ratings truly help our community of home cooks.