Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe (Easy & Delicious) Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
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

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Introduction

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, garlicky sauce that elevates every bite. It’s perfect for wraps, plates, or a quick weeknight meal.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with layers of food starting with a soft, light-brown pita bread base holding thick pieces of grilled chicken with a dark char and crispy texture, some bits showing juicy white meat inside. Fresh green chopped herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a vibrant touch. A creamy white sauce with black specks is being poured over the chicken from above by a woman's hand, creating a smooth, flowing effect that covers parts of the dish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. 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
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for the garlic sauce)
Salt to taste (for the garlic sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add the chicken strips. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Preheat your grill or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a few drops of oil to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
Step 3: Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust garlic or salt to taste.
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, pickled turnips, or a simple salad on the side if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat; breasts work well if you prefer leaner options.
Marinate the chicken overnight to allow the spices to deeply infuse the meat.
For extra smoky flavor, cook the chicken over charcoal or use a grill pan indoors.
Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to the garlic sauce for a fresh touch.
Serve with warm pita, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and pickled vegetables for an authentic shawarma experience.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The garlic sauce is best served cold or at room temperature, so avoid heating it.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a pita wrap filled with well-grilled, golden-brown chicken pieces on top. Underneath the chicken, there is a mix of chopped fresh vegetables including green cucumber slices, bright red tomato pieces, and chopped green herbs. The wrap is lightly toasted and slightly puffy, holding all the ingredients together. A generous drizzle of white sauce with green herb flecks flows over the chicken, running down across the wooden board on which the wrap is placed. A woman's hand is seen in the background gently holding the pita. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, beef, lamb, or even tofu can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.

How spicy is this chicken shawarma?

This recipe has a mild warmth from the spices but is not spicy hot. You can add chili powder or fresh chili flakes if you prefer more heat.