Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish consisting of succulent, thinly sliced meat that is typically marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It is often served in a warm pita bread or flatbread with a variety of toppings and sauces. Here’s a basic recipe for making chicken shawarma:
Ingredients for the Marinade:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Ingredients for Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced onions
- Shredded lettuce
- Tahini sauce or garlic sauce
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients and mix well.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, make sure it is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through and nicely charred. If using a skillet, cook the chicken in batches until browned and fully cooked.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice the chicken into strips.
- Warm the pita bread or flatbread in the oven or on the grill for a few seconds until pliable.
- Assemble the shawarma by placing a few slices of chicken on a piece of bread. Top it with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, shredded lettuce, and any other desired toppings.
- Drizzle the shawarma with tahini sauce or garlic sauce. Add pickles if desired.
- Roll up the bread tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides to secure it.
- Serve the shawarma immediately while warm and enjoy!
You can customize the shawarma by using different meats such as beef, lamb, or a combination of meats. Feel free to add additional toppings and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Shawarma makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.