Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe: 7 Flavor Tips

Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe: 7 Flavor Tips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 4 pita breads; 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1 tomato, diced; 1/2 onion, sliced

Posted on November 18, 2025

Posted by Georgina sami

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish—Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce! This recipe is a true flavor explosion, combining tender, marinated chicken with a creamy, garlicky sauce that just takes it to the next level. The spices—cumin, coriander, and paprika—are perfectly balanced, giving the chicken an irresistible depth. I remember the first time I tried shawarma at a little food truck, and I was hooked! Now, I love recreating that magic at home. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, and trust me, you’ll want to dive into this deliciousness again and again. Your taste buds will thank you, I promise!

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to whip up your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable!

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup plain yogurt
4 pita breads
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 tomato, diced
1/2 onion, sliced

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready—chop that tomato and onion, shred your lettuce, and let the chicken shine in its marinade. You’ll be so glad you did! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your mouthwatering Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. I promise it’ll be a breeze!

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them really well in that fragrant spice mix. The more the chicken soaks up those flavors, the better!
Cover the bowl and marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. If you have time, marinate it overnight for even deeper flavor! Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get that perfect sear on your chicken.
Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through and have that beautiful golden color. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in those juices, then slice it thinly. Oh, the aroma is going to make your mouth water!
While the chicken is resting, warm your pita bread on the grill for 1-2 minutes until they’re soft and slightly toasted.
Now for the fun part! Assemble your shawarma by placing a generous amount of sliced chicken in each warm pita. Top it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions.
Finally, drizzle that creamy garlic sauce on top before serving. You’re in for a treat!

Enjoy the deliciousness and don’t forget to savor every bite of your homemade Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce! It’s a flavor fiesta waiting to happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
Vibrant, bold flavors that transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East.
Healthy ingredients like chicken and fresh veggies make it a guilt-free indulgence.
Assembly is a breeze—just layer your ingredients and enjoy!

This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that you’ll crave again and again!

Tips for Success

Here are my top tips to ensure your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce turns out absolutely fantastic!

Marination Magic: Don’t rush the marination! While an hour is great, I highly recommend letting the chicken soak in those spices overnight if you can. It makes such a difference in flavor!
Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, a skillet works wonders too! Just make sure it’s hot enough to get that lovely sear. And remember, don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed!
Chicken Choice: If you prefer a leaner option, feel free to swap the chicken thighs for chicken breast. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as breasts can dry out faster.
Customize Your Shawarma: Get creative with your toppings! Add pickles, sliced cucumbers, or even some feta cheese for extra flavor. You can also switch up the spices to suit your taste—try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat!
Garlic Sauce Boost: If you want a richer garlic sauce, mix in a bit of tahini or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zing. Trust me, it takes the sauce to a whole new level!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce ever. Enjoy every step of the cooking adventure!

Variations on Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

One of the best things about this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is its versatility! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

Chicken Breast Swap: If you’re looking for a leaner option, go ahead and use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying them out!
Vegetable Delight: Add some grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a colorful and nutritious twist. They’ll bring extra flavor and freshness!
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices! Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to your marinade for a warm, aromatic flavor that’s just divine.
Herbed Shawarma: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor. You can even create a herb-infused garlic sauce by blending garlic with these herbs!
Wrap It Up: Instead of pita bread, use flatbreads, tortillas, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Each offers a unique taste and texture!

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to find your favorite twist!

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutrition packed into your delightful Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce? Here’s a quick look at the typical values per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates based on the ingredients used, so results may vary slightly depending on your specific choices!

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g

With a great balance of protein and healthy fats, this dish makes for a satisfying meal that you can feel good about enjoying. Dig in and savor every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself right!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up:

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is a great option if you’re looking for something leaner. Just be mindful of the cooking time since breasts can dry out more quickly than thighs.

What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! A skillet works just fine. Just make sure it’s hot enough to give the chicken a nice sear. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken might steam instead of sear, so cook in batches if needed!

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! Making the garlic sauce ahead of time can actually enhance the flavors as it sits. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.

How can I spice it up?
If you’re craving some heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the marinade! You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.

What sides pair well with Chicken Shawarma?
I love serving it with a side of tabbouleh, hummus, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. You could also try it with roasted veggies for a deliciously balanced meal!

With these answers, you’re all set to tackle any shawarma challenge that comes your way. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftovers from your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage and reheating will keep those flavors intact for your next meal.

First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature, but don’t leave it out for too long—safety first! Once cooled, transfer the chicken and any leftover toppings into airtight containers. If you have extra garlic sauce, store it in a separate container to maintain its creamy goodness.

Pop everything in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:

For the chicken: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This keeps it juicy and delicious!
For the pita: Warm in a toaster oven or on the grill for just a minute or two until soft and pliable.
For the garlic sauce: If it’s thickened in the fridge, give it a stir or add a splash of water to loosen it up.

And there you have it! Enjoy your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce leftovers just as much as the first time around. Happy reheating!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal! Here are some of my favorite sides that pair beautifully with shawarma:

Tabbouleh: This fresh, herby salad made with parsley, mint, bulgur, and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that complements the flavors of the shawarma perfectly.
Hummus: A creamy, garlicky hummus is always a hit! Serve it with warm pita chips or veggies for dipping, and watch it disappear!
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with olive oil and spices, then roast them until tender. They add a wonderful sweetness to the meal.
Greek Salad: A simple salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil brings a Mediterranean flair that pairs wonderfully with the shawarma.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs and spices is a great base for your chicken shawarma. It soaks up all those delicious flavors!

Feel free to mix and match these sides to create your perfect meal. Each option adds a little something special, making your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce an unforgettable experience! Enjoy!