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BEST CHICKEN SHAWARMA RECIPE

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
Enjoy restaurant-quality Chicken Shawarma made fresh at home. This recipe delivers juicy, spice-infused chicken, warm pita bread, and a tangy garlic sauce. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Food processor
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Jar

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced for the garlic sauce
  • ¼ cup lemon juice for the garlic sauce
  • ½ cup ice water for the garlic sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt for the garlic sauce
  • 1 cup neutral oil vegetable, canola, or grapeseed) (for the garlic sauce
  • Pita bread, warmed
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Pickled turnips optional
  • Tahini sauce optional

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, yogurt, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  • In a food processor, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, ice water, and salt. Process until a smooth paste forms.
  • With the food processor running, very slowly drizzle in the oil, a few drops at a time. Continue processing until the mixture emulsifies and becomes thick and creamy.
  • If the sauce separates, stop adding oil and add a tablespoon of ice water. Process again until emulsified.
  • Transfer the garlic sauce to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned. OR Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to work in batches). Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
  • Warm the pita bread.
  • Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
  • Fill each pita bread with sliced chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and a generous dollop of garlic sauce.
  • Add pickled turnips and tahini sauce, if desired.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. If the garlic sauce separates, ensure ingredients are cold and drizzle oil very slowly. The chicken marinade and garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Experiment with different toppings and sauces to customize your shawarma.