Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds to the streets of the Middle East? Look no further than this mouthwatering chicken shawarma recipe. Packed with flavors and spices, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a true delight for the senses.

History and Origins of Chicken Shawarma

Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique blend of flavors. Although its exact origins are debated, shawarma is believed to have originated in the Levant region, which includes countries like Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.

Traditionally, shawarma was prepared by skewering marinated meat, often lamb or chicken, on a vertical spit and slow-roasting it. The meat would be cooked for hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the juices to infuse the meat. Today, the cooking methods have evolved, but the essence of shawarma remains the same.

Chicken Shawarma Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Middle Eastern

Servings 4 People

Calories 528 kcal

Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds to the streets of the Middle East? Look no further than this mouthwatering chicken shawarma recipe

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 Cast Iron Skillet
• 1 Mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

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• ▢ 2 lb Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ▢ ¼ cup Extra virgin olive oil
• ▢ 2 tbsp Lemon juice
• ▢ 4 cloves Garlic minced
• ▢ 1 tsp Ground cumin
• ▢ 1 tsp Ground paprika
• ▢ 1 tsp Ground coriander
• ▢ ½ tsp Ground turmeric
• ▢ ¼ tsp Ground cinnamon
• ▢ Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

• Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in achieving the mouthwatering flavors of chicken shawarma. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground paprika, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade.
• Next, add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with incredible flavors but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy and succulent shawarma.

Cooking Methods for Chicken Shawarma

• Traditionally, shawarma was cooked on a vertical spit, slowly rotating and roasting the meat. While this method may not be accessible to everyone, there are alternative cooking methods that can yield equally delicious results.
• One popular method is to cook the marinated chicken on a grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet or oven. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Whichever method you choose, make sure to allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This will help to retain the juices and ensure a tender and flavorful outcome.

❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Taste

To achieve the perfect texture and taste for your chicken shawarma, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender compared to chicken breasts, making them the ideal choice for shawarma.
2. Marinate for at least 2 hours: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more intense the flavors will be.
3. Don't overcrowd the grill or skillet: Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken pieces to allow for even cooking.
4. Let the chicken rest before slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking will result in juicier meat.
5. Adjust the spices to your taste: Feel free to experiment with the spice quantities to suit your preference.

By following these tips, you'll be able to create chicken shawarma that is bursting with flavor and has the perfect balance of textures.

Nutrition

Serving: 314 gCalories: 528 kcalCarbohydrates: 46 gProtein: 45 gFat: 17 gSaturated Fat: 3.6 gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4.8 gMonounsaturated Fat: 7.2 gCholesterol: 101 mgFiber: 3.1 gIron: 4.5 mg

Keyword Chicken Shawarma, Chicken Shawarma Recipe, Shawarma

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Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

Chicken shawarma is traditionally served in warm pita bread, accompanied by a variety of toppings and sauces. Here are some suggestions to take your shawarma to the next level:

• Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and drizzle over the chicken shawarma.
• Fresh Vegetables: Top your shawarma with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and parsley for a refreshing crunch.
• Pickles: Add some tangy pickles, such as pickled turnips or cucumbers, for an extra burst of flavor.
• Tahini Sauce: Drizzle some creamy tahini sauce over your shawarma for a nutty and savory twist.

Feel free to get creative and customize your chicken shawarma with your favorite toppings and sauces. The possibilities are endless!

Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma

Chicken shawarma not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers several health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you can enjoy this flavorful dish guilt-free:

• Lean Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, zinc, and iron.
• Low in Fat: By using boneless, skinless chicken thighs and grilling or baking the meat, you can enjoy chicken shawarma with reduced fat content.
• Antioxidant-rich Spices: The aromatic spices used in shawarma, such as cumin, paprika, and turmeric, are packed with antioxidants that promote overall health.

As with any dish, moderation is key. Enjoy chicken shawarma as part of a balanced diet for a flavorful and nutritious meal.

Variations and Alternatives to Chicken Shawarma

While chicken shawarma is undoubtedly delicious, there are several variations and alternatives that you can explore:

• Beef Shawarma: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef for a heartier option.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: Replace the meat with grilled vegetables or falafel for a flavorful vegetarian alternative.
• Lamb Shawarma: For a more traditional take, use thinly sliced lamb instead of chicken.
• Shawarma Bowls: Skip the pita bread and serve the marinated chicken with a base of rice or salad for a lighter option.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique twist on shawarma. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Chicken shawarma is a culinary masterpiece that brings the vibrant flavors of the Middle East to your plate. With its aromatic spices and tender, juicy meat, it’s no wonder that this dish has gained worldwide popularity.

By following this recipe and incorporating your own personal touches, you can create a restaurant-quality chicken shawarma that will impress your family and friends. Serve it in warm pita bread with a tangy garlic yogurt sauce and fresh veggies for a complete meal that will transport you to the bustling streets of the Middle East.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this sensational chicken shawarma recipe. Bon appétit!