If you have ever dreamed of savoring the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food right at home, then this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. The tender, spiced chicken thighs marinated to perfection combine beautifully with a luscious, garlicky sauce that elevates every bite. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and exotic, easy to prepare but packed with bold layers of flavor that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or impressing guests, this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are simple yet essential, each bringing its unique charm to the dish. From aromatic spices to fresh garlic and creamy yogurt, they work together harmoniously to create that signature shawarma taste and velvety sauce texture.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 1/2 pounds): Juicy and tender, thighs hold up well to marinating and cooking without drying out.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the spices stick to the chicken for even flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the marinade and tenderizes the meat.
- Garlic cloves (3 minced + 2 for sauce): The heart of both the marinade and the creamy garlic sauce, delivering irresistible aroma and taste.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, earthy depth that’s essential for traditional shawarma flavor.
- Ground paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Ground turmeric (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a hint of warmth and gorgeous golden hue.
- Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a slightly citrusy, floral note.
- Ground cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Surprising and delightful in small quantities, it enhances the complexity of the spice profile.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat that awakens your palate.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Essential seasonings that balance all the flavors.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms a creamy base for the garlic sauce, lending richness and smoothness.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup): Adds tang and creaminess while keeping the sauce light.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) for the sauce: Brightens the richness with fresh acidity.
- Water (1 tablespoon): Used to adjust the sauce’s consistency for perfect drizzling or dipping.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and the vibrant shawarma spices — cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper — along with salt and black pepper in a large bowl. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in this fragrant marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to truly seep into the meat. You’ll notice that the longer it marinates, the more luscious and tender the chicken becomes, so overnight is golden if you have the time.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once marinated, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken thighs down carefully and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has those irresistible charred edges. The sizzling sound and aroma at this stage will make it hard not to sneak a taste already! After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in those juices before slicing it into strips. This resting step ensures every bite stays juicy and authentic.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While your chicken is cooking, whip up the sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Stir it together until smooth and creamy. If it feels too thick, add water a little at a time until you reach your ideal saucy consistency. This sauce is the magic touch that beautifully complements the bold spices on the chicken, adding cool creaminess and a punch of garlic that you’ll want to drizzle generously.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes take this dish to the next level. Think fresh parsley for brightness, thinly sliced pickled onions for tang and crunch, or even a handful of chopped cucumbers and tomatoes to add freshness. These little extras brighten the plate and add texture to every bite, making the experience balanced and exciting.
Side Dishes
Chicken shawarma tastes amazing over warm pita bread or fluffy steamed rice, which soak up the creamy garlic sauce perfectly. For a veggie-packed option, roasted vegetables or a crisp salad with lemony dressing complement the richness beautifully. Whether you want hearty or fresh, the flexible nature of this recipe means you can tailor your sides to your mood or occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Serve your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe as wraps rolled up with fresh veggies and sauce, or turn it into a vibrant shawarma bowl layered with rice, pickles, and your favorite sauces. You can even stuff it inside pita pockets or use it to top flatbreads. No matter how you plate it, the flavor will shine — so have fun with your presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked, your chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy garlic sauce separately to maintain its freshness. When stored properly, leftovers maintain their delicious flavor and texture, making them perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save extra portions, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the creamy garlic sauce separately and only thaw what you need. This way, you have a ready-made meal any time you crave those shawarma flavors without the hassle.
Reheating
To retain moisture, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven wrapped in foil until warm. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the meat. Once heated through, slice and serve with fresh or warmed sauce. Reheating this way keeps your shawarma tasting freshly cooked, delicious and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts work fine if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out more quickly.
How spicy is this chicken shawarma recipe?
This recipe has just a gentle touch of heat from the cayenne pepper, making it flavorful without being overwhelming. You can always adjust the amount of cayenne to suit your preferred spice level.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives like vegan mayo and coconut yogurt. The key is to maintain the creamy, tangy balance for that signature sauce feel.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
Marinating overnight definitely enhances the depth of flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, even one hour of marinating will still result in deliciously spiced and tender chicken.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover chicken shawarma is fantastic in wraps, salads, or even scrambled eggs for a flavorful brunch twist. Just reheat gently and pair with fresh veggies and sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe brings the exciting tastes of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen with ease and delight. Once you master this, it can become a go-to meal for weeknights, lunchboxes, or entertaining friends. Don’t hesitate to dive into the layers of spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken — it truly is a celebration of flavor that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Ready to impress yourself and your loved ones? Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a family favorite.
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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (active time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served with a tangy, smooth garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for wraps or served over rice, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make main course that brings authentic shawarma flavors right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon water, to thin (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade that will infuse your chicken with authentic shawarma flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though marinating overnight is recommended for best flavor penetration.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot enough to sear the chicken. This step helps achieve the desirable charred exterior typical of shawarma.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs onto the hot skillet or grill pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and charred on the outside. Proper internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Slice: Remove the cooked chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then slice the chicken into thin strips suitable for wraps or platters.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, minced or grated garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve: Assemble the sliced chicken shawarma in warm pita bread or serve over rice. Add the creamy garlic sauce on top, along with fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled onions, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can opt to bake the chicken at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, then broil briefly to achieve crispy edges instead of grilling or stovetop cooking.
- The garlic sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making meal prep easier.
- For a spicier kick, adjust cayenne pepper amount to your taste.
- Serve with warm pita bread or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
