Delicious Homemade Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that will transport you to the streets of the Middle East? Look no further than this Chicken Shawarma recipe! This dish is perfect for those who love robust flavors and tender, juicy chicken, all wrapped in a warm pita with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Recipe

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is great for anyone who enjoys a mix of savory spices, tangy yogurt, and fresh, crisp vegetables. It’s perfect for a weekend meal prep, a family dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends. The marinated chicken is incredibly flavorful, and the option to cook it on skewers or a baking sheet means you can adapt it to your kitchen setup. Plus, the homemade tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing and creamy finish to every bite.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Sheet Pan
• Strong BBQ Skewers (optional)
• Large Bowl with Lid
• Small Bowls
• Grater or Garlic Press
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade:

• 4-5 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 1/2 TBSP Kinders Greek Blend seasoning
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp black or white pepper
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp chopped dill

Additional Ingredients:

• Pita bread
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• 1 large onion or potato (for skewers method)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

• In a large bowl, combine the Kinders Greek Blend seasoning, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil.

• Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and mix well to ensure the chicken is fully coated.

• Cover the bowl with a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 48 hours for maximum flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut a large yellow onion *I’d use a Potato is your thighs are bigger* in half and place it on a sheet pan, cut side down.

• Insert the BBQ skewers into the onion halves to create a stand.
• Layer the marinated chicken thighs onto the skewers.

• Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.

Stand-Up Skewers Method

Lay-Flat Baking Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 25 minutes on one side, then flip and bake for another 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and slightly crispy.

Making the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out any excess moisture using paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, grated garlic, kosher salt, and chopped dill.
3. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.

Assembling the Shawarma

1. Once the chicken is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Warm the pita bread and layer it with chicken, lettuce, tomato, and sliced red onion or pickles.
3. Drizzle with the homemade tzatziki sauce.
4. Serve and enjoy!

Notes and Tips

• The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. While 2 hours is sufficient, marinating for 12 to 48 hours will yield the best results.
• If using the stand-up method with skewers, consider using a large potato instead of an onion if your chicken thighs are larger, as it provides a more stable base.
• This recipe can be made without skewers by simply baking the chicken flat on a sheet pan. Adjust the cooking time and check for your desired level of crispiness.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tzatziki sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave and enjoy as a quick meal or in a wrap.

Food and Drink Pairings

Pair this Chicken Shawarma with a fresh Greek salad and a side of hummus and pita chips for a complete meal. For a refreshing drink, try serving it with a chilled glass of iced tea or a light, fruity white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc.

@kimberlyihouston

In a large bowl combine Chicken Marinade: 4-5 boneless skinless chicken thighs 1 1/2 TBSP Kinders Greek Blend seasoning 2 tsp salt 2 tsp black or white pepper 2 tsp cumin 2 tsp paprika 1/3 cup Greek yogurt 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup olive oil for a minimum of 2 hours up to 48 hrs. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut a large yellow onion *I’d use a Potato is your thighs are bigger* in half and place it on a sheet pan, cut side down. Insert the BBQ skewers into the onion halves to create a stand. Layer the marinated chicken thighs onto the skewers. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy. Tzatziki Sauce: 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tsp olive oil 1 clove garlic, grated 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1 tbsp chopped dill Full Chicken Shawarma recipe at https://theaffordablefoodie.com/delicious-homemade-chicken-shawarma-recipe/ #takeoutathome #chickenshawarma #cheapmeals #dinnertime

♬ Beat Type 90s Madrugada Relaxar – Beatdohostil

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy as thighs. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version of this shawarma.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade to give the chicken a bit of a kick.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

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This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich blend of spices, tender chicken, and refreshing tzatziki sauce, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Give it a try and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

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