Description
Discover how to make incredibly tender and flavorful Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home with this step-by-step recipe. Get the best restaurant-quality taste with our simple guide!
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken Shawarma:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 6–8 cloves fresh garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or grapeseed)
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric (if using), black pepper, and salt. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
- Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until garlic is very finely minced. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the neutral oil until the sauce emulsifies and becomes thick and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, stirring occasionally, until chicken is browned, caramelized, and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Step 4: Assemble Your Shawarma: Warm pita bread or wraps. Spread with garlic sauce, pile high with cooked chicken, and add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and pickled turnips. Roll or fold and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins