Craving the vibrant flavors of a chicken shawarma but don't have time for a complicated recipe? Look no further! This easy oven-baked chicken shawarma recipe delivers all the deliciousness of your favorite takeout, without the hassle. It's a perfect weeknight dinner solution – a healthy and satisfying meal ready in under an hour. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade shawarma, bursting with aromatic spices and tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes that are also easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pita bread, for serving
- Hummus, for serving
- Tahini sauce, for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, coriander, oregano, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
Roast the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the sliced onions and bell peppers in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. For extra crispy chicken, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and vegetables from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the chicken shawarma in warm pita bread with hummus, tahini sauce (if using), and fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and browning. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor: While boneless, skinless thighs are easier to work with, bone-in thighs will impart a richer flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to experiment with the spices to create your own unique blend. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or eggplant.
- Use different protein: This recipe can also be made with lamb or beef. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Add potatoes or sweet potatoes to the baking sheet for a complete one-pan meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy oven-baked chicken shawarma recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of homemade cooking recipes. It's a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the flavorful journey into the world of easy recipes and healthy meals!