Savory Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt Sauce

If you’re looking for a delicious meal that brings the flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen, this Chicken Shawarma recipe is for you. Using boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, this dish is packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying.

The marinade, infused with garlic, turmeric, olive oil, salt, and black pepper, ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, perfect for wrapping in a warm pita or serving over rice. You won’t believe how simple it is to create this restaurant-quality dish at home!

Deliciously Marinated Chicken

The star of the dish is boneless skinless chicken breasts, marinated to perfection.

With a blend of yogurt and lemon juice, this marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful flavor.

Garlic, a key ingredient, adds a punch that complements the aromatic spices of cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric.

Olive oil, salt, and black pepper complete the mix, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.

Crafting the Perfect Marinade

Creating a flavor-packed marinade is simple.

Begin by whisking together the yogurt and lemon juice in a bowl, providing a tangy base that helps tenderize the chicken.

Add minced garlic for depth, and then the spice trio of cumin, coriander, and paprika for warmth and richness.

A hint of turmeric not only enhances the color but also contributes to the overall aromatic experience.

Finally, drizzle in some olive oil, season with salt and black pepper, and the marinade is ready to elevate the chicken’s flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken Shawarma

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook.

Heat your grill or skillet to a medium-high temperature, ensuring a nice sear on the chicken.

Each side should cook for approximately 6-7 minutes until perfectly done, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Allow the chicken to rest before slicing; this step retains moisture and enhances taste.

Assembling Your Shawarma Plate

Now comes the fun part—assembling your Chicken Shawarma!

Slice the cooked chicken into juicy strips and layer them onto warm pita bread.

Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce add crunch and brightness.

A drizzle of creamy yogurt sauce ties everything together beautifully, balancing the spiced chicken and fresh toppings.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing

For a complete meal, serve your shawarma with a side of rice or a fresh salad.

Consider garnishing with herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color.

The colorful Middle Eastern-style table setting enhances the dining experience, making it visually appealing and inviting.

Understanding the Nutrition

This Chicken Shawarma recipe serves four and provides a nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 38 grams of protein, making it a satisfying choice.

The balance of ingredients ensures a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Irresistible Chicken Shawarma Recipe

A delicious Chicken Shawarma served on pita with vegetables and yogurt sauce.

This Chicken Shawarma offers a wonderful balance of spices and herbs, creating a warm and fragrant dish. The combination of yogurt and lemon juice not only adds a zesty punch but also helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. Slice and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Serve the shawarma in warm pita bread or over a bed of rice, topped with your favorite vegetables and sauces.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g

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