Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

April 8, 2025

Updated:

April 8, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce wafting through the kitchen. It’s a tantalizing blend of spices that dances in the air, promising flavors that will have your taste buds singing. The juicy chicken, marinated to perfection, pairs beautifully with a sauce so creamy it could be classified as a culinary hug.

Picture this: you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner party, and as they take their first bite of the shawarma, their eyes light up. You know you’ve hit the jackpot. This dish is not just a meal it’s an experience best enjoyed on cozy nights in or lively summer barbecues. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
Its bold flavors and creamy garlic sauce create a delightful harmony in every bite
The vibrant colors make it a visual feast that everyone will admire
This dish is versatile enough to serve in wraps or over rice for any occasion

I remember the first time I served Chicken Shawarma at a family gathering my cousin declared it the “best thing ever” after just one bite

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for extra juiciness and flavor compared to breasts.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor don’t skimp on these little powerhouses.
Ground Cumin: A warm spice that adds depth look for high-quality cumin for maximum flavor.
Coriander Powder: This spice brightens up the dish and balances out the earthiness of cumin.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika if you love that subtle smokiness it transforms the chicken.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity and brightness to cut through the richness.
Greek Yogurt: A key ingredient for your creamy garlic sauce it keeps things luscious without being overly heavy.
Olive Oil: Helps to marinate the chicken while adding healthy fats and rich flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings adjust according to your preference and taste.

For the Sauce:

Mayonnaise: A base for your creamy sauce use full-fat for richness if you dare
Dijon Mustard: Adds tanginess that elevates your garlic sauce don’t skip this
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: For garnish choose whichever herb tickles your fancy
Water (if needed): To adjust consistency add little by little until you achieve desired thickness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: Begin by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, garlic cloves, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least an hour overnight works wonders too

Cook Your Chicken Shawarma : Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until nicely charred and cooked through. Trust me you’ll know when it’s done by that irresistible aroma

Prepare Your Creamy Garlic Sauce : In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and water until smooth. Taste it Adjust seasoning as necessary because life is too short for bland sauces.

Slicing Time : Once cooked, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. This helps retain all those juicy flavors because nobody wants dry chicken

Assemble Your Dish : Serve sliced shawarma on a platter or in wraps with fresh veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce on top. Bonus points if you can manage not to devour it all at once

Add Some Garnish : Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over everything just before serving it makes your dish pop visually and adds freshness.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce at your next gathering or simply indulge solo while binge-watching your favorite series

You Must Know

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavor explosion
The marinade tenderizes the chicken beautifully, while the garlic sauce adds creamy goodness
An easy dish that impresses family and friends, making it a weeknight favorite or a weekend celebration

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear your marinated chicken first to lock in flavors, then slice it thinly while preparing the creamy garlic sauce. This sequence maximizes flavor and efficiency.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts or add veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra crunch. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor this step makes all the difference
Slice against the grain to keep your chicken tender and juicy
A homemade garlic sauce using fresh garlic elevates the dish beyond takeout quality

Cooking Chicken Shawarma always reminds me of that one summer I spent perfecting my technique while entertaining friends. Their compliments were music to my ears, and I still cherish those flavorful gatherings.

FAQs

FAQ

What cut of chicken is best for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them ideal.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma ahead of time?

Yes Marinate the chicken and prepare the garlic sauce a day in advance for convenience.

What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma?

Serve it with pita bread, fresh veggies, and your favorite sides like tabbouleh or hummus.

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