If you ever crave a burst of vibrant Middle Eastern flavors right in your own kitchen, this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender, spice-infused chicken thighs with a luscious, tangy garlic sauce that brings everything together perfectly. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, offering layers of smoky, savory, and fresh tastes wrapped in warm pita bread. Once you make it, you’ll want to reach for this recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is so straightforward because the ingredients are both simple and essential. Each component plays a crucial role in building the authentic flavor and satisfying texture that make this dish shine.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect choice for juicy, tender meat that absorbs the spices beautifully.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices coat the chicken evenly.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Brings that warm, earthy undertone essential to shawarma seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smoky aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Brightens the color and lends a hint of warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra layer of garlicky goodness in the chicken.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Provides a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: The base for the creamy garlic sauce, offering tang and creaminess.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic punches up the sauce with aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and a fresh zip to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Gives the sauce richness and smooth texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the sauce with a silky finish.
- Salt to taste: To round out the creamy garlic sauce perfectly.
- Pita bread, for serving: Soft and warm, ideal for wrapping all those delicious ingredients.
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, for serving: Add crunch, freshness, and vibrant color to your shawarma wraps.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Spice Mix
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s ready to cook the chicken perfectly. While it’s heating, mix together olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This spice blend is the heart and soul of your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe, setting the stage for every bite.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to your spice mix and toss until each piece is generously coated. This step allows the spices to cling to the meat, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Let the chicken soak up all those spices for a few minutes if you have the time—this little pause makes a big difference.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken thighs in a baking dish and pop them into the oven. Baking for 25 to 30 minutes will cook the chicken through while keeping it juicy and tender. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is irresistible and signals that deliciousness is on its way.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While your chicken cooks, whip up that signature creamy garlic sauce. Combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. This sauce is gloriously rich yet fresh and tangy, making it the perfect partner for the spiced chicken. Set it aside to let all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Slice and Warm
Once the chicken is fully cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes to keep those juices locked in. Then slice the meat thinly—this makes it easier to pile up in your pita and ensures every bite is balanced. Meanwhile, warm the pita bread in the oven to make it soft and pliable for wrapping.
Step 6: Assemble Your Shawarma
Lay your warm pita flat and start piling on the sliced chicken. Add fresh slices of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions to bring crunch and brightness to your wrap. Don’t forget to drizzle plenty of that dreamy creamy garlic sauce on top! Wrap it all up snugly, and your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is ready to devour.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can add your personal touch. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro provide a burst of color and herbal freshness that elevate your shawarma’s presentation and taste. A sprinkle of sumac or a dash of chili flakes can introduce subtle tanginess or heat to appeal to your mood.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh side dishes. A crisp fattoush salad or pickled turnips cut through the richness with their acidity and crunch. Roasted vegetables or a side of fluffy rice pilaf can round out your meal for a more substantial feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like impressing your guests? Turn your shawarma into bowls by layering the sliced chicken, sauce, and fresh veggies over a bed of warm couscous or quinoa. Alternatively, make sliders using mini pitas topped with the garlic sauce for a fun party appetizer that still captures the essence of this delicious recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe (and trust me, you might), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay moist, and the sauce retains its creamy texture for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to a month. Just cool completely, place in a freezer-safe bag, and defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep the creamy garlic sauce refrigerated and fresh, as freezing may alter its texture.
Reheating
To reheat your shawarma chicken, use a gentle oven heat or stovetop pan to maintain juiciness and avoid drying out. Warm the pita separately to keep it soft. Add fresh garnishes and spoon on the creamy garlic sauce just before serving to keep flavors vibrant and textures perfect.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
You absolutely can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they tend to be leaner and can dry out faster. Marinate well and watch cooking times closely to keep the meat juicy and tender in your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for the garlic sauce?
Greek yogurt is key because it provides the thick, creamy base that balances the strong garlic flavor. If you want a substitute, try plain yogurt strained through a cheesecloth to get a similar consistency.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the spice mix or drizzling hot sauce over the finished shawarma can bring a nice kick without overpowering the original flavors.
How long does the marinated chicken need to rest?
Ideally, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to an hour to let those incredible spices fully penetrate. But if you’re short on time, coating it well just before cooking still yields tasty results.
What’s the best way to serve the shawarma for a crowd?
Set up a DIY shawarma bar with the sliced chicken, creamy garlic sauce, fresh veggies, and pita on the side. This lets everyone customize their wraps, making it a fun and interactive meal perfect for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug wrapped in bold flavors. It’s approachable enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve when you want to wow guests. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your cooking repertoire.
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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe offers a flavorful Middle Eastern classic made easy at home. Juicy, spice-rubbed chicken thighs are oven-baked to perfection and served with a tangy, creamy garlic sauce, wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables. A deliciously satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 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
For Serving
- Pita bread, for serving
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Mix Spices and Oil: In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create the flavorful marinade.
- Coat Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and thoroughly coat each piece with the spice mixture ensuring all sides are covered.
- Bake Chicken: Place the coated chicken thighs in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Prepare Garlic Sauce: While the chicken bakes, mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, olive oil, and salt in a bowl; set aside to develop flavor.
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices, then slice thinly.
- Warm Pita: Place pita bread in the oven to warm slightly, making it pliable for wrapping.
- Assemble Shawarma: Lay slices of chicken onto the warm pita bread as the base layer.
- Add Vegetables: Top the chicken with fresh sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for crunch and freshness.
- Drizzle Sauce: Generously drizzle the prepared creamy garlic sauce over the toppings to add richness and tang.
- Wrap and Enjoy: Wrap the pita around the fillings and enjoy your homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
Notes
- For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours before baking.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred, though thighs tend to be juicier.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be adjusted in garlic amount to suit your taste preference.
- To make this dish gluten free, use gluten-free pita or serve with a salad instead.
- Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
