Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, you’ve found it! This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The tender, spice-marinated chicken grilled to perfection is topped with a luscious, tangy garlic sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re whipping this up for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a family gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe truly special is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to create something that feels gourmet. It’s perfect for anyone who loves easy recipes that don’t skimp on flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the juicy chicken and creamy sauce—perfect for picky eaters!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra chicken and sauce for lunches throughout the week; it stores beautifully!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in warm pita bread or over rice; customize with your favorite veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! They come together beautifully to create that unforgettable Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 3 garlic cloves, finely grated or mashed
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt to taste

To Serve

• Warm pita or flatbread
• Fresh parsley or cilantro
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled onions (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs for juiciness or opt for chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chickpeas or grilled vegetables for an equally delicious dish.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you love some heat in your meals.
• Experiment with sauces: Try tahini sauce instead of garlic sauce for a different flavor profile!

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well! Add the chicken and make sure it’s fully coated in this flavorful marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes — this step infuses all those delightful spices into the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While your chicken marinates, whip up the creamy garlic sauce. In another bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, and salt. Taste and adjust as needed. The creaminess balances perfectly with the spiced chicken!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken pieces. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they are nicely browned and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). This gives you that lovely smoky flavor we all crave!

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Warm up your pita bread if desired. Place sliced chicken inside along with fresh parsley or cilantro and any additional toppings like cucumbers or tomatoes. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce.

Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy this delightful Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce as a satisfying dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ready to take your Chicken Shawarma to the next level? Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and tenderness!

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight if possible) enhances the flavors and makes the meat incredibly tender. The spices and yogurt work their magic, creating that signature shawarma taste.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s perfectly juicy while avoiding dryness. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking!

• Grill for Authentic Flavor: If you can, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing. This method adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the spices beautifully, making it feel like you’re dining in a Mediterranean restaurant.

• Prepare Extra Sauce: Whip up a bit more creamy garlic sauce than you think you’ll need—it’s that good! This versatile sauce can be used as a dip or dressing on salads, adding a delicious zing to various meals.

• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your garnishes! Adding fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, or even pickled items can elevate your shawarma experience and make each bite unique.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Serving Chicken Shawarma is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness. The herbs bring a lovely brightness that balances the rich flavors.

• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their shawarma. The acidity enhances the overall flavor profile wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, mint, and bulgur is light and zesty, making it a perfect complement to the savory shawarma.

• Hummus: Creamy hummus pairs well with pita bread and provides an additional layer of flavor and texture. It’s also great for dipping any leftover veggies.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate while enhancing the Mediterranean vibe of your meal.

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the chicken perfectly, absorbing all those delicious shawarma juices for an extra flavorful side.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce will not only taste fantastic but also look inviting on your dining table. Enjoy each mouthwatering bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in advance or prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the chicken is cooled and packed tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce without yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or simply increase the amount of mayonnaise for added creaminess.

What do I serve with Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

This dish pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad. Add your favorite toppings like cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled onions for extra flavor!

How can I customize my Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences! You can also experiment with different marinades or serve it with various sauces.

Is Chicken Shawarma healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken and contains wholesome ingredients. The use of Greek yogurt adds creaminess while keeping it light.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table while being easy to prepare. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!