When you’re craving something boldly spiced, deeply satisfying, and irresistibly creamy, this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the dish that delivers on every front. Perfectly marinated chicken grilled to juicy perfection and topped with a tangy, garlicky yogurt sauce—this is Middle Eastern comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re hosting friends, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to something incredible, this recipe is a must-try.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is ideal for home cooks of all levels—from kitchen novices looking to impress to seasoned foodies seeking a new favorite. It’s gluten-free by default (just skip the pita if needed), and it can easily be adapted to suit dairy-free or low-carb diets. It’s also an excellent option for meal preppers since it stores and reheats beautifully. The spice blend is complex without being complicated, and the creamy garlic sauce adds a luxurious finish that takes this dish from everyday to extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Recipe

• ✅ Bold, layered spices that wake up your taste buds
• ✅ Simple, wholesome ingredients found in most kitchens
• ✅ Quick cooking time once the chicken is marinated
• ✅ Versatile—serve it in a wrap, over rice, or on a salad
• ✅ Perfectly paired with a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for sauce
• Grill pan, cast iron skillet, or outdoor grill
• Meat thermometer (for accuracy)
• Tongs or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, cayenne, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Pro Tip: The longer the marination, the deeper the flavor. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will still add great taste.

2. Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Shortcut Option: Use an air fryer at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Optional Add-Ins: Try adding a spoonful of tahini or a dash of smoked paprika for a flavor twist.

4. Serve and Garnish

Slice the rested chicken and arrange it on a serving platter or directly over rice, pita, or salad greens. Drizzle generously with the garlic sauce and finish with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Pita Wraps: Stuff the sliced chicken and garlic sauce into warm pita bread with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce.
• Shawarma Bowls: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa with pickled onions, chickpeas, and grilled veggies.
• Salad Style: Top a green salad with sliced shawarma, feta, olives, and a drizzle of the garlic sauce for a lighter option.

Storage and Leftovers

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Store chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Reheat Tips: Warm chicken gently over medium heat to retain moisture. Stir sauce before using again.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Meat Swap: Try this marinade on lamb, beef strips, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Spice Level: Adjust cayenne to your heat preference. Want it milder? Omit it. Love heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Sauce Base: Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt to make it dairy-free.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

What to Serve With Chicken Shawarma

Wondering what else to pair this dish with? Here are a few winning combinations:

Side Dishes:

• Cucumber-Tomato Salad with olive oil and lemon
• Roasted Potatoes with za’atar seasoning
• Hummus and Warm Pita Bread

Drink Pairings:

• Mint Lemonade – fresh and cooling
• Cucumber Water – to balance the spices
• Dry Rosé or a crisp Lager – great for outdoor gatherings

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, absolutely! While thighs are juicier and more forgiving, breasts work well too—just be careful not to overcook them. Consider pounding them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). The juices should also run clear when pierced.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes! The garlic sauce actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the chicken and garlic sauce are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to pair them with gluten-free sides like rice or gluten-free wraps if needed.

Can I grill this chicken outdoors?

Definitely! This recipe is excellent on a charcoal or gas grill. Just oil the grates and cook over medium-high heat for that irresistible smoky char.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce isn’t just a meal—it’s a culinary experience. The harmony of warm spices, tender meat, and a cooling garlic sauce is a flavor combo that never disappoints. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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Happy cooking—and even happier eating! 🍴