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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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This Chicken Shawarma with creamy garlic sauce is a flavor-packed, homemade version of the beloved Middle Eastern dish. Juicy, spiced chicken thighs are seared to perfection and served in warm pita with a tangy, garlicky yogurt sauce. It’s easy to prep, perfect for meal planning, and always a hit for wraps, bowls, or salads.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken Shawarma:
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For Serving & Garnish:
  • Warm pita or flatbread
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, pickled turnips

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Rest, then slice.
  3. Make the Garlic Sauce: Combine yogurt, mayo, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
  4. Assemble the Wraps: Warm pita, fill with chicken, drizzle with garlic sauce, and top with optional veggies and parsley.

Notes

  • Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • Marinate tofu or jackfruit for a vegan version.
  • Serve over rice or salad instead of in wraps.
  • Add chili flakes or pickled onions for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/chicken-shawarma-with-creamy-garlic-sauce/