Chicken shawarma is one of the most flavorful and satisfying dishes you can make at home. Whether you enjoy it in a wrap, over rice, or with a side of pita bread, this dish is packed with aromatic spices and juicy, tender chicken. Instead of ordering takeout, try this easy shawarma recipe that will impress your taste buds.
Why Make Chicken Shawarma at Home?
Homemade chicken shawarma gives you complete control over the ingredients and flavors. You can adjust the spice levels, choose high-quality meat, and avoid preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to experiment with different cooking methods, from grilling to using a chicken shawarma crock pot for slow-cooked perfection.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Shawarma
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thigh shawarma (boneless, skinless)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
For Serving:
- Chicken and pita bread recipes pair perfectly, so have fresh pita bread ready
- Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions
- Tzatziki or garlic sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Shawarma
For authentic results, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or use a chicken shawarma crock pot to slow-cook it on low for 6 hours.
Step 3: Slice and Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.
Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma Wrap
To make a chicken schwarma wrap, warm the pita bread and layer it with sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and your choice of sauce. Roll it up tightly, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Homemade Shawarma
- Use the right spice blend: A well-balanced chicken shawarma spice blend makes all the difference. You can make your own mix or buy a pre-made version.
- Go for chicken thighs: They are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
- Shred for variety: If you love shredded chicken, try the shred happens chicken schwarma method, where you finely pull apart the chicken before serving.
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating)
- Servings: 4-6
Final Thoughts
This Greek chicken shawarma recipe is an absolute must-try for any food lover. With its rich spices and juicy chicken, it’s a meal that brings Mediterranean flavors right to your kitchen. Whether you’re making an easy shawarma recipe for a weeknight dinner or preparing a crowd-pleasing feast, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
