Today, we’re making a delicious Homemade Chicken Shawarma that will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and your plates with incredible flavors. Imagine succulent, marinated chicken cooked to perfection, wrapped in warm pita bread, and topped with fresh veggies and creamy tahini sauce. This is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
I remember the first time I tried Chicken Shawarma at a local food truck. The flavors were so vibrant and comforting that I had to learn how to make it at home. After a few trials and tweaks, I finally perfected this recipe. Now, it’s a staple in our household, especially on weekends when we want something special yet easy to prepare. My family loves the tender, flavorful chicken, and it’s always a hit with guests.
What makes this Chicken Shawarma truly special is its blend of spices and the marination process. The combination of cumin, coriander, paprika, and other spices gives the chicken an irresistible aroma and taste. Plus, the marination ensures that every bite is juicy and packed with flavor. Paired with fresh vegetables and a creamy sauce, this dish is a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Recipe Summary
Enjoy the authentic flavors of the Middle East with this Homemade Chicken Shawarma. Succulent, spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tahini sauce wrapped in warm pita bread make this dish a family favorite and a hit at any gathering.
Exciting Story
One of our favorite family traditions is making Homemade Chicken Shawarma on Friday nights. It all started when my husband suggested we try cooking something new and exotic. The first time we made it, the kids were curious about the spices and the unique cooking method. As the chicken grilled and the aroma filled the kitchen, their excitement grew. When we finally sat down to eat, everyone was thrilled with the result. Now, it’s become a beloved ritual that we all look forward to, and it always brings a smile to everyone’s face.
Why This Chicken Shawarma?
Selling Points:
- Authentic Flavor: A blend of traditional Middle Eastern spices gives this dish its distinctive and delicious taste.
- Juicy and Tender: Marinating the chicken ensures it’s flavorful and succulent.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Versatile: Can be served in pita bread, over rice, or with a salad.
Ingredients:
2 lbs Chicken thigh fillets, boneless and skinless
2 cloves Garlic, minced
3 tbsp Lemon juice
3 tbsp Olive oil
2 tsp Ground coriander
2 tsp Ground cumin
2 tsp Paprika
2 tsp Salt
1 tsp Ground allspice
1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
8 pieces Pita bread
3 cups Lettuce, shredded
1 Red onion, thinly sliced
4 Tomatoes, sliced
1 1/2 cups Plain yogurt
2 tbsp Mayonnaise
1 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Garlic powder
1 tsp Onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, allspice, and black pepper. Mix well.
Add the chicken thigh fillets to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine plain yogurt, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Grill the chicken thigh fillets for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips.
Assemble the Shawarma:
Warm the pita bread either on the grilled chicken