The sizzling sounds of spices wafting through the kitchen instantly transport me to the bustling streets of a Middle Eastern bazaar. In this post, I’m excited to share my Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe, a delightful dish that turns mundane chicken into an incredible feast packed with customizable flavors. This recipe not only brings a fun twist to your dinner table but is also protein-rich and easily adaptable for different dietary needs; you can even swap out Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt to make it dairy-free. It’s the perfect choice whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a get-together. Curious about how to achieve that perfect char with juicy tenderness? Let’s dive into the flavorful world of shawarma!
Why is this Chicken Shawarma Special?
Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to impress family and friends.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom creates an unforgettable taste experience, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a cooling contrast that elevates the dish.
Versatility: Feel free to adapt this recipe! Whether you prefer lamb, beef, or a vegetarian option like cauliflower, the flavor profile works beautifully for any protein.
Meal Prepping: Cook a batch ahead of time! The chicken and garlic sauce keep well, making lunchbox meals or a quick weeknight dinner a breeze.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it in warm pita pockets with fresh veggies or as a flavorful topping for rice bowls—either way, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table! If you’re looking for more chicken ideas, check out this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken or try making Chicken Caesar Wraps.
Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce Ingredients
Discover the essential ingredients that elevate your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce to a culinary masterpiece!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Greek Yogurt – Tenderizes chicken and carries spices; full-fat preferred for richer flavor.
- Olive Oil – Provides richness and aids in emulsification; use extra virgin for quality flavor.
- Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness to the marinade; fresh juice is best for correct flavor.
- Minced Garlic – Key flavor component of the garlic sauce; remove green sprouts for less bitterness.
- Cumin – Warm spice that enhances the shawarma flavor; freshly toasted whole seeds are recommended.
- Coriander – Provides citrusy notes; toasting enhances the flavor.
- Cardamom – Essential for authentic shawarma flavor; don’t skip—this distinguishes the dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds depth and smokiness; regular paprika can be substituted.
- Turmeric, Cinnamon, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Black Pepper – Contribute to the complex shawarma profile; adjust cayenne to taste for desired heat.
For the Garlic Sauce
- Minced Garlic – Provides a strong garlic flavor; processing ensures a smooth sauce.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce; adjust to taste.
- Olive Oil – Helps to create a creamy, emulsified sauce; add slowly for stability.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce and balances flavors; fresh juice preferred for best results.
Unleash your inner chef with this Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce recipe and embark on a delicious culinary adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice until fully emulsified. Add in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and black pepper, ensuring a uniform, rich color. Pat the chicken dry and cut it into preferred pieces; immerse it in the marinade for at least 3 hours, ideally overnight, to develop those vibrant flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
Start making the creamy garlic sauce by processing minced garlic with a pinch of salt in a food processor until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth emulsion. Gradually alternate adding lemon juice and the remaining olive oil, blending until the sauce is creamy and thick. The garlic sauce should be rich and flavorful, perfect for complementing your Chicken Shawarma.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for a good sear. Remove excess marinade from the chicken pieces and place them in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook the chicken undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden caramelization forms on one side. Flip the pieces and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which should take another 3-5 minutes. Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Warm fluffy pita bread or your choice of side, and start building your delicious meal. Spread a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce on the pita, layer it with sliced chicken, and add fresh vegetables of your choice like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit more garlic sauce for extra flavor, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce for an unforgettable meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it absorbs those delicious flavors. Additionally, prepare the garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; this helps maintain its creamy texture. To keep everything fresh, package the marinated chicken and garlic sauce separately. On the day you plan to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken and assemble your wraps or bowls with the sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a quick, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, perfect for impressing family and friends!
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma
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Room Temperature Chicken: Ensuring your chicken is at room temperature promotes even cooking and helps achieve that perfect char.
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Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, allow your chicken to marinate overnight. Even a few extra hours can make a significant difference in taste.
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Use a Thermometer: Don’t guess when it comes to doneness! An instant-read thermometer will confirm your chicken has reached 165°F, ensuring juicy meat and food safety.
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Emulsion Technique: When making the garlic sauce, add oil slowly to prevent breaking the emulsion, resulting in a smooth, creamy sauce.
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Versatile Protein Options: Feel free to swap out chicken with lamb or beef for a delicious variation, or even use cauliflower for a vegetarian choice.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce alongside fresh salads or rice for a complete meal that will impress everyone!
Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chicken Shawarma recipe with exciting twists and substitutions that cater to your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut yogurt for Greek yogurt to create a deliciously creamy garlic sauce without dairy. The tropical touch adds a new dimension of flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper for a bolder heat, or incorporate harissa for an intense, peppery flavor that enlivens the entire dish. Your taste buds will dance with every bite!
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Protein Swap: Experiment with marinating other proteins like tender lamb or beef for a richer shawarma taste. Both options take on the spices beautifully, making dinner an exciting experience.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for cauliflower to create a hearty vegetarian version of this dish. Bake or grill the cauliflower to achieve the same gorgeous char while soaking in all those fantastic flavors.
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Herbaceous Boost: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your garlic sauce for an extra burst of freshness. The herb notes can lift the creamy texture and add a delightful aroma.
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Mediterranean Twist: Enhance the dish by throwing in some roasted red peppers or olives. These additions bring a Mediterranean flair to your shawarma that pairs excellently with the garlic sauce.
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Smoky Flavor: Mix a splash of liquid smoke or a sprinkle of smoked sea salt into the marinade. This adds an irresistible smokiness that complements the spices beautifully.
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Flavor Infusion: Marinate the chicken with citrus zest—think orange or lime—for a refreshing twist. This brightens the profile with a zesty, aromatic brightness that’s simply irresistible.
Dive into these variations and tailor your Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce to suit your cravings! For additional delicious ideas, try my recipes for Street Corn Chicken or explore Mushroom Chicken Soup for another comforting dish!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce
Fridge: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps it juicy and tender while ensuring maximum flavor retention.
Garlic Sauce: Place the garlic sauce in a sealed container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 1 month, making meal prep easy and allowing it to enhance various dishes.
Freezer: If you have extra chicken shawarma, freeze it in portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The garlic sauce can be served cool or at room temperature to freshen up the flavors of your Chicken Shawarma Garlic Sauce.
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Indulge in a culinary adventure by pairing your shawarma with delightful sides that enhance its rich flavors and textures.
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Creamy Hummus: This velvety dip is perfect for spreading on pita! Its smooth texture balances the savory spices of your shawarma beautifully.
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Tabbouleh Salad: Light and refreshing, this parsley salad with bulgur, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing offers a bright contrast to the hearty shawarma.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies add a satisfying crunch. Their sweetness complements the spices while enhancing the meal’s visual appeal.
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Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy and delicate, couscous seasoned with herbs absorbs the garlic sauce and rounds out the dish with delightful flavors.
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Crispy Fries: Perfect for those who love to dip! The warmth of fries provides a fun and comforting touch, soaking up the garlic sauce with every bite.
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Minted Yogurt Sauce: A cooling sauce combining yogurt, mint, and cucumber adds freshness. It’s the ideal counterpart to the shawarma’s bold spices.
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Lemonade or Mint Tea: Brighten up your meal with a refreshing drink! Both options cleanse the palate and enhance the Middle Eastern dining experience.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of Greek yogurt should I use for the marinade?
I recommend using full-fat Greek yogurt as it not only tenderizes the chicken but also enhances the richness of the marinade. The creamier texture helps the spices cling to the chicken beautifully, making every bite incredibly flavorful.
How should I store leftover chicken shawarma and garlic sauce?
Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it juicy and tender. For the garlic sauce, place it in a sealed container, and it can last for up to 1 month, making it perfect for meal prep and enhancing various dishes.
Can I freeze the chicken shawarma? If so, how?
Absolutely! If you have extra chicken shawarma, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
What spices should I avoid if I have allergies?
If you have spice allergies, it’s essential to avoid cumin and coriander, as they are pivotal for the shawarma flavor profile. Instead, you could explore using paprika with a little thyme or rosemary to bring some flavor without triggering your allergy. Always consult with a doctor or nutritionist for tailored advice.
How do I ensure my garlic sauce doesn’t break?
To keep your garlic sauce stable, it’s vital to add the olive oil slowly while processing. Start by mixing minced garlic and salt until finely chopped, then very slowly drizzle in the oil. This emulsification technique helps to maintain a creamy consistency throughout the sauce.
How can I adapt this recipe for a dairy-free option?
Definitely! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt. This swap works beautifully and still provides the creamy texture needed for the marinade and sauce, allowing everyone to enjoy the delightful flavors of Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce!
Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice until fully emulsified. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and black pepper, ensuring a uniform color. Pat the chicken dry, cut it into preferred pieces, and immerse it in the marinade for at least 3 hours, ideally overnight.
- Process minced garlic with a pinch of salt in a food processor until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth emulsion. Gradually alternate adding lemon juice and remaining olive oil, blending until the sauce is creamy and thick.
- Heat a skillet over high heat. Remove excess marinade from the chicken pieces and place them in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden caramelization forms. Flip and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 3-5 minutes. Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Warm pita bread or your choice of side, spread garlic sauce on the pita, layer with sliced chicken, and add fresh vegetables like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Drizzle with more garlic sauce and enjoy.
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