If you’re craving something bursting with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors and utterly satisfying, you have to try this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of perfectly spiced chicken thighs baked to juicy tenderness, paired with a rich and garlicky sauce that’s just the right balance of tangy and creamy. This dish isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience that wraps up all those warm, comforting tastes into one delicious pita bundle you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature shawarma flavor and the luscious garlic sauce that takes it to the next level.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing the spices.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps the spices meld beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: The warm, earthy backbone of the spice mix.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For its smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Adds a subtle depth and golden hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic essence throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: A surprising hint of warmth that rounds out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To bring out all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the garlic sauce, adding tanginess and richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh and pungent, making the sauce truly flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Gives extra creaminess and silkiness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps emulsify the sauce and adds depth.
- Pita bread, for serving: Soft and perfect for wrapping all the delicious fillings.
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, for serving: Fresh veggies add crunch, color, and contrast.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Spice Mix
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, combine the olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This spice blend is the star player, packing that unmistakable shawarma punch.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Next, add the boneless chicken thighs to your spice mixture. Toss them well until every inch is lovingly coated with the aromatic blend. This step ensures the chicken will soak in all those flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The oven does all the work, leaving you with succulent pieces ready to be sliced.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is baking, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, olive oil, and salt in a bowl. This sauce is the creamy, garlicky star alongside the savory chicken, bringing everything together with its fresh tang and smooth texture.
Step 5: Slice and Warm the Pita
When the chicken is done, let it rest just a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Meanwhile, warm your pita bread in the oven to make it soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping.
Step 6: Assemble Your Shawarma
Lay out a warm pita, then pile on the sliced chicken. Top it all off with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for that crisp, refreshing crunch. Finally, drizzle a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over the top, wrap it up, and get ready to dig in.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a burst of color and lively flavor that complements the rich shawarma perfectly. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of sumac or a few pickled vegetables can add a tangy twist that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best alongside simple sides. Think fluffy basmati rice, a crisp fattoush salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. These provide a lovely contrast and help balance the rich, savory shawarma.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, serve the chicken shawarma over a bed of greens for a deconstructed salad, or create mini sliders using naan bread for party-friendly bites. No matter how you present it, this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe never fails to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken shawarma and sauce store beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pita breads separate so they stay fresh and don’t get soggy.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken without the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. The garlic sauce is best made fresh but can be chilled for a couple of days if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven or on the stovetop to keep it juicy, avoiding the microwave which can dry it out. Refresh the pita bread by warming it briefly before assembling your shawarma again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but keep in mind that thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender with these spices. If using breast, avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
Is this recipe spicy?
The Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe has a gentle warmth from the spices but isn’t overly spicy. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if you prefer more heat.
Can I make the garlic sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives or use blended silken tofu to maintain creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
What about making this recipe on the grill?
Grilling the marinated chicken adds a lovely smoky flavor and crisp edges that work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking time depending on your grill’s heat.
How do I store the creamy garlic sauce?
Keep the sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; stir well before using. It’s best fresh but still tastes great after chilling.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and excitement together on one plate. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or impressing guests at dinner, the bold spices combined with the creamy garlic sauce never fail to deliver. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!
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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe offers a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring tender, spice-rubbed chicken thighs baked to perfection. Served with a tangy and creamy garlic sauce, fresh pita bread, and crisp sliced vegetables, it’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Chicken Shawarma
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
To Serve
- Pita bread
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare Spice Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create the flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the spice mixture, ensuring each piece is well covered.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the chicken bakes, mix together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, olive oil, and salt in a separate bowl. Set this sauce aside to develop flavors.
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly to retain juices and enhance tenderness.
- Warm the Pita Bread: Place pita bread in the oven to warm it slightly, making it soft and pliable for wrapping.
- Assemble the Shawarma: Lay slices of chicken onto the warmed pita bread, then add fresh sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions on top.
- Add the Sauce: Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the vegetables and chicken for added flavor and moisture.
- Wrap and Serve: Roll up the pita with all the fillings securely inside and enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but thighs provide more tenderness and flavor.
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the spice mixture.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated to let flavors meld.
- Serve with extra fresh vegetables or pickles for added crunch and acidity.
- Leftover sliced chicken shawarma can be used in salads or wraps the next day.
