Craving a taste of the vibrant Lebanese street food scene? Look no further! This easy Lebanese chicken shawarma recipe brings the authentic flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen. Forget takeout – this homemade version is surprisingly quick, incredibly delicious, and bursting with fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this healthy and flavorful meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Flavor Powerhouses
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed for larger gatherings.
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For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice blend (recipe below, or store-bought)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Shawarma Spice Blend (Homemade):
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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For Serving:
- 6-8 pita breads
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup tahini sauce
- Chopped fresh parsley and tomatoes
- Optional: Pickled turnips, onions, or other shawarma toppings
Instructions: Let's Get Cooking!
This recipe is surprisingly simple and requires minimal hands-on time.
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients with the chicken. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be!
2. Cook the Chicken: You can cook this in several ways:
- Skillet Method (Quickest): Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10-15 minutes).
- Oven Method (For even cooking): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Grill Method (For smoky flavor): Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely charred (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Assemble the Shawarma: Warm the pita breads. Spread hummus and tahini sauce inside. Add the cooked chicken, followed by fresh parsley and tomatoes. Add any other desired toppings.
Tips & Variations for Delicious Twists
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
- Alternative Proteins: Feel free to use lamb, beef, or even tofu instead of chicken. Adjust the marinade accordingly.
- Make it a Salad: Skip the pita bread and serve the chicken over a bed of greens with your favorite toppings for a lighter, healthier meal.
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on busy weeknights.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 35-45g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Lebanese chicken shawarma recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy authentic Middle Eastern flavors at home. With its simple ingredients and flexible cooking methods, it's a perfect dish for both beginners and experienced cooks. Enjoy!