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Ultimate Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe You Need to Try - Featured Image

Ultimate Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe You Need to Try

Learn how to make delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially when it comes to the spices and fresh garlic. I always reach for fresh garlic bulbs and quality yogurt to get that authentic, creamy garlic sauce that’s not too overpowering but still has a punch. The spices, like cumin and smoked paprika, bring that signature shawarma flavor, so having them fresh and aromatic makes all the difference.

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into strips
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • For the garlic sauce: 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons water (to thin sauce if needed)

Substitution tip: If you prefer a lighter garlic sauce, swap mayonnaise for extra Greek yogurt or use a mix of both for creaminess without heaviness.

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips with olive oil, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices: cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until every piece is coated.
  2. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
  3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the garlic sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Add water a little at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
  5. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
  6. Serve the chicken warm, generously drizzled with garlic sauce. I like to add fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sumac for a little extra brightness.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, recipe, cooking, food