Chicken Shawarma
Spiced chicken wrapped in fresh pita with garlic sauce, pickles, and fresh veggies.
The Story
Chicken Shawarma is a beloved street food that embodies the rich culinary tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine, often enjoyed in bustling markets and gatherings. Its fragrant spices and tender chicken tell a story of tradition, hospitality, and the fusion of flavors that bring people together.
Nutrition per Serving
350
Calories
30g
Protein
20g
Carbs
15g
Fat
3g
Fiber
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Begin by marinating the chicken thighs. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth marinade.
- 2
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- 3
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your fresh vegetables. Dice the tomato and cucumber into small pieces. Set them aside in a bowl for later use.
- 4
After the marinating time, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, cooking them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and are beautifully charred.
- 5
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices in the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.
- 6
Slice the chicken into thin strips, approximately 1/2 inch wide. This will make it easy to fit into the pita bread and create a delicious bite.
- 7
Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable. This will enhance the texture and flavor of the bread when wrapped around the filling.
- 8
To assemble, take a piece of pita bread and layer it with a generous amount of sliced chicken. Top with diced tomato and cucumber. Drizzle tahini sauce over the top for added creaminess and flavor.
- 9
Fold the pita bread over the filling, creating a pocket. You can also roll it into a wrap if you prefer. Ensure it's tightly wrapped to hold all the delicious ingredients together.
- 10
Serve the chicken shawarma immediately while warm, with extra tahini sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful, homemade snack!
- 11
Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a touch of freshness before serving.
Pro Tips
- •
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- •
Use a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika for a well-rounded taste.
- •
Cook the chicken on high heat to achieve a nice char while keeping it juicy.
- •
Serve with a side of garlic sauce or tahini for added creaminess.
Variations
- →
Swap chicken for lamb or beef for a different flavor profile.
- →
Add pickled vegetables for a tangy twist commonly found in regional variations.
- →
Use whole wheat pita bread instead of traditional flatbread for a healthier option.