The aroma of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce wafts through the air, a tantalizing invitation that no one can resist. Imagine tender chicken marinated in a symphony of spices, grilled to perfection, and topped with a creamy garlic sauce that dances on your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I tried Chicken Shawarma at a bustling street market. The flavors exploded in my mouth like a flavorful fireworks show, and I was hooked for life. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving comfort food on a chilly evening, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is super easy to prepare, ensuring you won’t spend hours in the kitchen
- Each bite bursts with bold flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser
- Its vibrant colors are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table
- Versatile enough to enjoy in wraps or on salads, this dish fits any meal requirement perfectly
One time, my friends were skeptical about trying homemade shawarma until they took that first bite. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they realized they’d never tasted anything quite like it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves are key; they offer the aromatic punch needed for that delectable sauce.
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Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth and depth; be generous for maximum flavor.
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Paprika: I prefer using smoked paprika here to add a subtle depth of flavor; it makes all the difference.
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Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed lemon juice brightens up the chicken wonderfully; don’t skimp on this!
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for marinating and grilling; it brings out the best flavors.
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Salt & Pepper: Basic but essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors beautifully.
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Tahini Paste: Adds creaminess and nutty flavor to your garlic sauce; it’s worth sourcing good quality tahini.
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Yogurt: Plain yogurt creates a luscious base for your garlic sauce; opt for full-fat if possible.
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Cilantro or Parsley (optional): Fresh herbs not only add color but also brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Marinate the Chicken: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss in chicken breasts until coated well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb those fabulous flavors.
Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while you’ve been salivating over the marinated chicken. A hot grill ensures those beautiful char marks!
Grill the Chicken: Place marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks and juicy tenderness—those are your indicators!
Rest and Slice: Remove grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips. This step keeps all those delicious juices locked inside.
Create the Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini paste, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and water until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency as needed—aim for something drizzable.
Assemble Your Dish: Serve sliced chicken over rice or in pita wraps topped with fresh veggies and drizzle generously with garlic sauce. Enjoy every single bite of this heavenly creation!
Now that you have all these steps laid out like breadcrumbs leading you to culinary bliss, there’s nothing stopping you from whipping up an epic Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce! Remember to savor each moment as you prepare this dish—it’s more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories filled with laughter and joy!
You Must Know
- The secret to a great Chicken Shawarma lies in the marinade
- Let it sit overnight for the best flavor
- This dish is perfect for family gatherings, and the aroma will have everyone asking for seconds
- Serve with warm pita bread for an authentic experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken for at least an hour, then cook it in a hot skillet for that perfect sear. Once browned, finish it off in the oven to ensure juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for beef or lamb if you’re feeling adventurous. Additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika can enhance the flavors dramatically.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For tender chicken, always marinate longer than an hour; overnight is ideal
- Use high heat when searing to lock in juices and flavor
- Fresh garlic makes a world of difference in your garlic sauce!
I once made Chicken Shawarma for a potluck, and it vanished within minutes. Watching friends devour my creation felt like winning a culinary award; their smiles were priceless!
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate your chicken for at least one hour, but overnight yields better flavor.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, beef or lamb also works beautifully with this Chicken Shawarma recipe.
What sides pair well with Chicken Shawarma?
Serve with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy, garlicky sauce that will elevate your meal. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Each bite bursts with spices and freshness, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup tahini paste
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (full-fat preferred)
- Water as needed for sauce consistency
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Cook marinated chicken on the grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Allow grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Whisk together tahini paste, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and water until smooth; adjust consistency as desired.
- Serve sliced chicken over rice or in pita wraps topped with fresh veggies and drizzle generously with garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Feel free to substitute chicken with beef or lamb. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.
