Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

🌯 Chicken Shawarma: A Holiday Twist on Middle Eastern Comfort 🎄✨

Bring warmth and spice to your holiday table with this homemade Chicken Shawarma! This Middle Eastern classic, made with aromatic spices and tender chicken thighs, is a wonderful, festive addition that will wow your guests. The marinated chicken is oven-baked to perfection, filling your kitchen with the tantalizing scent of cumin, cinnamon, and coriander—a seasonal aroma that brings coziness and joy. 🍋🔥

Ingredients

For the Shawarma Marinade:

  • 1 tbsp garlic powder

  • 2 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tbsp ground coriander

  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • 2 tsp black pepper

  • 2 tsp kosher salt

  • 1 onion, thinly sliced

  • Juice of one lemon

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs (about 6 pieces)

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

For the Yogurt Sauce:

  • ⅔ cup Greek yogurt

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tsp lemon juice

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, black pepper, and kosher salt. Whisk well to create the marinade.

  2. Add Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, tossing to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

  3. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Add the thinly sliced onion to the marinated chicken and toss to coat.

  4. Bake: Spread the chicken and onions evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  5. Rest and Slice: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven, then slice thinly for serving.

  6. Make the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the sliced chicken shawarma on warmed pita bread with a generous drizzle of yogurt sauce.

  • Add fresh toppings such as chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cucumber slices, or pickled red onions for a festive, colorful presentation.

Notes

🎅 Notes & Variations

  • Healthier Twist: Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.

  • Additional Toppings: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of pomegranate seeds for a seasonal twist.

  • Make It a Shawarma Bowl: Serve over a bed of rice or salad greens instead of in a pita for a lighter option.

This Chicken Shawarma brings warmth, flavor, and holiday cheer to any meal, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy a touch of the exotic this Christmas! 🎄

  • Author: niold.com