Craving restaurant-quality chicken shawarma but don't want the hassle or expense of ordering takeout? Then you're in the right place! This recipe delivers the vibrant flavors and tender, juicy chicken of your favorite shawarma joint, all made easily in your own kitchen. Forget complicated techniques – this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a go-to for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Pita bread, hummus, and your favorite shawarma toppings (such as tahini, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, etc.)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more delicious it will be!
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. You can also use a broiler for a faster cooking time.
- Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned (about 8-10 minutes). If using a broiler, cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.
Assemble Your Shawarma:
- Warm the pita bread according to package instructions.
- Spread hummus on each pita.
- Fill the pita bread with the cooked chicken and your favorite toppings.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the marinade.
- Make it healthier: Use a non-stick pan to minimize the need for added oil.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Include chopped bell peppers or zucchini in the marinade and cook them along with the chicken.
- Make it a meal prep wonder: Double the recipe and enjoy delicious shawarma for lunch throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a balanced meal rich in protein and flavor, though the exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. As a guideline, one serving likely contains approximately 300-400 calories, 30-40g of protein, and a moderate amount of fat.
This easy chicken shawarma recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a delicious dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. The incredible aromas alone will draw everyone to the table! Enjoy this taste of the Middle East from the comfort of your own kitchen, a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy. This recipe is truly among the best recipes you'll find for a satisfying and flavorful meal.