Best Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Homemade Garlic Sauce

Welcome to the ultimate guide to making the best chicken shawarma with homemade garlic sauce. If you’re a garlic lover and enjoy flavorful, healthy Middle Eastern cuisine, this recipe is perfect for you. In this article, we will walk you through the process of creating an authentic chicken shawarma dish that will rival any takeout or store-bought version.

Why Make This Recipe / Why It’s Better Than Takeout or Store-Bought Versions

Creating your own chicken shawarma at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. With this homemade recipe, you can ensure that your meal is fresh, healthy, and free from any additives or preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Plus, the aroma of freshly cooked shawarma filling your kitchen is truly unbeatable!

Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken Shawarma:

– Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– Olive oil

– Lemon juice

– Garlic powder

– Cumin

– Paprika

– Turmeric

– Cayenne pepper

– Salt and black pepper

For the Garlic Sauce:

– Greek yogurt

– Fresh garlic cloves

– Lemon juice

– Salt

– Olive oil

– Dried dill

Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for preparing this mouthwatering chicken shawarma with garlic sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat the oven and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Cook until the chicken is tender and slightly charred.

4. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the garlic sauce by blending Greek yogurt, garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, and dried dill until smooth.

5. Once the chicken is done, slice it thinly and serve in warm pita bread with the homemade garlic sauce drizzled on top.

6. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken shawarma with garlic sauce!

Pro Tips or Secrets for Perfect Results

– For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sumac or ground cinnamon to the chicken marinade.

– If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken for grilling.

– To achieve a crispy exterior on the chicken, broil it for the last few minutes of cooking.

– Don’t skimp on the garlic sauce—it’s the star of this dish!

Now, let’s explore some customization ideas and variations you can try with this recipe.

Customization Ideas / Variations

– Make a spicy version of the garlic sauce by adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

– Swap the chicken thighs for chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

– Experiment with different spice blends to create unique flavor profiles for your shawarma.

– Serve the chicken shawarma over a bed of rice or in a salad for a lighter meal.

Next, let’s take a look at the nutritional information for this homemade chicken shawarma with garlic sauce.

Nutritional Information (approximate)

Serving Size: 1 shawarma wrap

Calories: 350

Protein: 25g

Carbohydrates: 20g

Fat: 18g

Now, let’s discuss some storage and meal prep tips to make your cooking experience even easier.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

– Store any leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

– The garlic sauce can be kept refrigerated for up to a week. Stir well before serving.

– Prepare the marinade and garlic sauce in advance for quick and easy meal prep during the week.

Avoid these common mistakes when making chicken shawarma at home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the chicken, resulting in dry meat.

– Not marinating the chicken for long enough, leading to bland flavors.

– Using too much or too little garlic in the sauce—find the perfect balance for your taste.

– Skipping the step of slicing the chicken thinly for the wraps, affecting the texture of the dish.

Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about chicken shawarma with homemade garlic sauce.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs, but be mindful of cooking time to avoid dryness.

Q: Is it possible to freeze the cooked chicken shawarma?

A: While you can freeze the cooked chicken, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q: Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The garlic sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Ensure that your spice blends are gluten-free and use gluten-free pita bread or serve the chicken shawarma over rice or salad.

Q: What side dishes pair well with chicken shawarma?

A: Hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush salad, and pickled vegetables are all excellent choices to serve alongside chicken shawarma.

Before we conclude, here are some ideas on what to serve with your homemade chicken shawarma.

Pairing Ideas or What to Serve With It

– Hummus and pita bread

– Tabbouleh salad

– Fattoush salad

– Pickled turnips

conclusion

In conclusion, this garlic lover’s chicken shawarma recipe is a must-try for your next family dinner. With the perfect blend of spices and a creamy garlic sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking up this savory homemade shawarma today!