Dinner

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe (Easy & Delicious) Recipe

Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe (Easy & Delicious) Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

Byluca Carter June 27, 2026June 27, 2026

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Introduction

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen. Ready in about an hour, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without compromising authenticity or deliciousness.

A close-up of a shawarma wrap held by a woman's hand, showing layers of grilled, browned chicken chunks on top, fresh green chopped parsley and cucumber slices beneath, and diced red tomatoes inside a soft, pale flatbread. The wrap is drizzled with a white, creamy sauce with green herbs, some of it dripping over the chicken onto a wooden board. The background is a white marbled texture out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika

1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and black pepper to taste
For the garlic sauce:
1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Preheat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a few drops of oil to prevent sticking and help with browning.
Step 3: Cook the marinated chicken on the grill or pan for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust to taste by adding more garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Step 5: Let the cooked chicken rest a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Serve in pita bread or on a plate, drizzled generously with garlic sauce. Add fresh vegetables or pickled turnips if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian alternative, substitute chicken with marinated mushrooms or tofu.

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter, creamier texture.
Try skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Serve with whole-wheat pita and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Add grilled vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to increase vitamins and minerals.

Storage

Store leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic sauce separate if possible. To reheat, warm the chicken in a pan over low heat until heated through, then drizzle with fresh garlic sauce before serving.

How to Serve

A pita bread wrap filled with three main layers sits on a wooden board over a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is bright green chopped fresh herbs and leafy greens. On top of this is a mix of diced red tomatoes and green cucumber pieces, adding fresh color and crunch. The top and main layer consists of golden-brown grilled chicken pieces, covered with creamy white sauce that drips down the side. There is a blurred woman's hand holding the wrap from the back. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight improves the flavor and tenderness, making your dish even more delicious.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a golden brown crust. Always check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.