Chicken Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that has become popular all over the world. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is made by marinating chicken in a blend of spices, then roasting or grilling it until it is tender and juicy. The dish is typically served in a pita bread or wrap, along with vegetables, pickles, and a variety of sauces.
The origins of Chicken Shawarma can be traced back to the Middle East, where it was traditionally made with lamb or beef. Over time, chicken became a more popular choice for the dish, as it is leaner and more versatile. Today, Chicken Shawarma is enjoyed by people of all cultures and backgrounds, and can be found in restaurants and food trucks all over the world.
There are many different variations of Chicken Shawarma, depending on the region and the cook. Some recipes call for a simple blend of spices, while others use more complex marinades and sauces. Some cooks prefer to roast the chicken on a spit, while others grill it on a hotplate or in the oven. Regardless of the method, the end result is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
2 lbs Chicken thigh fillets, boneless and skinless
2 cloves Garlic, minced
3 tbsp Lemon juice
3 tbsp Olive oil
2 tsp Ground coriander
2 tsp Ground cumin
2 tsp Paprika
2 tsp Salt
1 tsp Ground allspice
1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
For Serving:
8 pieces Pita bread
3 cups Lettuce, shredded
1 Red onion, thinly sliced
4 Tomatoes, sliced
For the Sauce:
1 1/2 cups Plain yogurt
2 tbsp Mayonnaise
1 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tsp Garlic powder
1 tsp Onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, allspice, and black pepper. Mix well.
Add the chicken thigh fillets to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine plain yogurt, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Grill the chicken thigh fillets for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips.
Assemble the Shawarma:
Warm the pita bread either on the grill for a few seconds on each side or in the oven wrapped in foil.
Spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce onto each warmed pita bread.
Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and grilled chicken slices.
Drizzle with additional sauce if desired.
Serve:
Serve the Chicken Shawarma immediately, either wrapped in the pita bread or as an open-faced sandwich.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Shawarma!
This Chicken Shawarma recipe is bursting with flavor and makes for a satisfying meal. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential ingredients for making chicken shawarma?
The essential ingredients for making chicken shawarma are boneless, skinless chicken thighs, a blend of spices (such as cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper), garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Some recipes may also include yogurt or vinegar.
How do you prepare the marinade for chicken shawarma?
To prepare the marinade for chicken shawarma, mix together the spices, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Then, add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
What are the typical accompaniments for a chicken shawarma wrap?
A chicken shawarma wrap is typically served with a variety of accompaniments, such as hummus, tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, fresh vegetables (such as lettuce, tomato, and cucumber), and pita bread. Some recipes may also include yogurt sauce or hot sauce.
How many calories does a chicken shawarma typically contain?
The number of calories in a chicken shawarma can vary depending on the recipe and serving size. On average, a chicken shawarma wrap contains around 600-700 calories. However, this can vary based on the ingredients used and the size of the wrap.
What is the traditional Lebanese method for preparing chicken shawarma?
The traditional Lebanese method for preparing chicken shawarma involves marinating the chicken in a blend of spices, garlic, lemon juice, and vinegar. The chicken is then skewered and slow-roasted on a vertical spit until tender and juicy. Once cooked, the chicken is shaved off the spit and served in a wrap or on a plate with various accompaniments.
How does the flavor profile of chicken shawarma differ from other grilled chicken dishes?
Chicken shawarma has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other grilled chicken dishes. The blend of spices used in the marinade gives the chicken a bold, savory flavor with hints of smokiness and warmth. Additionally, the slow-roasting process on a vertical spit helps to infuse the chicken with even more flavor and tenderness.