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chicken shawarma recipe

This chicken shawarma recipe features tender, marinated chicken with warm spices, grilled to perfection and served wrapped in pita bread for a flavorful Middle Eastern classic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Pita bread, for serving
  • Optional toppings: sliced cucumber, tomatoes, tahini sauce, chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine garlic, yogurt, olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
  5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
  6. Serve the sliced chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with your choice of toppings and sauces.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and serve with garlic sauce or hummus.