Ingredients
Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma
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- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
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- ½ cup plain yogurt
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- 3 tbsp olive oil
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- 3 cloves garlic, minced
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- Juice of 1 lemon
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- 1 tsp cumin
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- 1 tsp coriander
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- 1 tsp smoked paprika
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- ½ tsp turmeric
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- ½ tsp cinnamon
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- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
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- 1 tsp salt
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- ½ tsp black pepper
Ingredients for Garlic Sauce
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- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
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- 2 tbsp lemon juice
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- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
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- ¼ tsp salt
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- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Cooking Methods
Skillet Method
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- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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- Add a bit of oil and sear the marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
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- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Oven Method
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- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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- Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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- For extra char, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Air Fryer Method
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- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
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- Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Instructions
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- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) with lemon juice.
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- Stir in the minced garlic and salt.
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- Gradually drizzle in olive oil while mixing until smooth.
For a more traditional version, you can make authentic Toum using just garlic, oil, lemon juice, and salt blended into a fluffy, creamy consistency
Notes
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about chicken shawarma is its versatility. You can enjoy it in many ways:
- Pita Wrap – Load up a warm pita with sliced chicken, garlic sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles.
- Shawarma Bowl – Serve over rice with roasted veggies and a drizzle of garlic sauce.
- Salad Topping – Toss over a fresh Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, feta, and olives.
- Platter Style – Serve alongside hummus, tabbouleh, and warm pita for a complete meal.