What is Chicken Shawarma?
Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made by marinating chicken in a flavorful blend of spices, then grilling or roasting it on a spit. The chicken is typically served in a pita wrap or on a platter with vegetables, pickles, and various sauces such as tahini or garlic sauce. It is a delicious and satisfying dish that is enjoyed around the world.
Chicken Shawarma sounds fancy but I feel it is similar to chicken in a pita but with fancy flavors and it makes it sound like you are savoring a gourmet dish.
While chicken in a pita is a classic and delicious option, trying new and exciting dishes is a great way to expand one’s culinary horizons and discover new favorites. You’d be surprised how easy it is to make chicken shawarma at home, making it a convenient and impressive option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun and flavorful party dish.
How to make chicken shawarma
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs ( I used boneless chicken breast)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat them in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
- Let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
- Serve the chicken shawarma with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and your favorite toppings, such as chopped tomatoes, onions, and parsley.
Note: You can also cook the chicken on a grill or in a skillet if you like
Voila! Your homemade chicken shawarma is ready to impress your taste buds and your friends. It’s so easy to make, even your pet parrot could do it (if they had opposable thumbs, that is). Serve it up with a side of salad, and you’ll have a meal so delicious, you’ll forget you’re actually eating healthy.
