The perfect balance of spiced chicken and rich, creamy garlic sauce makes this dish irresistible. The shawarma is tender, juicy, and packed with deep flavors, thanks to the blend of cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Paired with the refreshing and tangy yogurt garlic sauce, every bite is an explosion of Mediterranean goodness. This dish is not only delicious but versatile, too. You can serve it with fresh pita bread, a side of roasted vegetables, or even over a bowl of rice. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is sure to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon ground cumin
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1 tablespoon ground coriander
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1 tablespoon ground paprika
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup plain yogurt
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1 tablespoon tahini (optional)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
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Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
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Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
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While the chicken cooks, prepare the garlic sauce by combining yogurt, tahini (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
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Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into thin strips and serve with the garlic sauce on top.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with your favorite side dish or pita bread!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Story Behind Chicken Shawarma: A Mediterranean Delight
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins trace back to Turkey, where it was originally made with lamb, beef, or chicken that was cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Over time, the dish spread across the Middle East and North Africa, with various countries adopting their unique twist on the recipe. Chicken shawarma, in particular, became a favorite because of its tender, juicy texture and the rich combination of spices that make it so flavorful.
The dish is traditionally made by marinating the meat in a mixture of spices, which is then grilled to perfection. The flavors of shawarma are a beautiful fusion of cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, and other aromatic spices, making it a savory treat that satisfies the taste buds. What makes this recipe unique is the creamy garlic sauce that accompanies the chicken, offering a delightful contrast to the spices with its tangy, rich, and velvety texture.
Why Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Is a Must-Try
There are countless reasons why Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce should be on your culinary bucket list. This dish is packed with flavor, has a wonderful texture, and is a healthier alternative to other fast foods. Here are some reasons why it stands out:
1. Flavor Explosion with Every Bite
The first thing that strikes you when you take a bite of this shawarma is the burst of flavors. The marinade, which includes ingredients like cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and garlic, creates a complex, aromatic flavor profile. The smoky taste from the grilled chicken enhances the richness of the yogurt-based garlic sauce, making every bite incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and creamy.
2. Healthy and Nutritious Ingredients
Unlike many fast food options that are deep-fried and packed with unhealthy fats, this chicken shawarma recipe is grilled, making it a healthier alternative. The chicken breast provides lean protein, which is great for muscle building and overall health. The garlic sauce, made from yogurt and tahini (optional), offers a smooth, creamy texture while also providing probiotics, which are excellent for gut health.
The combination of lean protein and fresh herbs in this recipe gives you a wholesome meal that’s filling without being overly heavy. Plus, you can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, adding even more nutrients to your meal.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
One of the best things about this chicken shawarma recipe is how easy it is to make. While the chicken needs to marinate for about an hour to absorb the full depth of the spices, the cooking process itself takes only about 15 minutes. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, as it doesn’t require hours of preparation.
Additionally, you can adjust the recipe to suit your needs. Whether you want to prepare it for a family dinner or a quick meal on the go, chicken shawarma is versatile and can be served in many ways – in a pita, over rice, or even as a wrap.
The Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Chicken shawarma is not only delicious but also provides a range of health benefits. Let’s break down some of the key ingredients in this dish and their nutritional value:
Lean Protein from Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps in muscle repair and growth. It is low in fat compared to other cuts of chicken, making it a healthier option for those looking to maintain or lose weight. Protein also helps in keeping you feeling full for longer periods, which is beneficial for weight management.
The Goodness of Garlic
Garlic is known for its many health benefits, particularly its ability to boost the immune system. It contains allicin, a compound that has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Garlic is also believed to support heart health by reducing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels. When paired with yogurt in this recipe, garlic also contributes to gut health by acting as a natural prebiotic.
Rich in Spices with Anti-inflammatory Properties
The spices used in the chicken shawarma marinade—such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric—have anti-inflammatory properties. These spices are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation in the body and improve digestion. They also offer a range of other health benefits, such as boosting metabolism and supporting detoxification processes.
Probiotics from Yogurt Sauce
The garlic sauce in this recipe is made using yogurt, which is rich in probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy digestive system. A good gut microbiome is linked to better immune function, enhanced mood, and even improved skin health. The probiotics in the yogurt sauce, combined with the garlic, create a balanced, nourishing element that complements the spiced chicken perfectly.
The Best Way to Serve Chicken Shawarma
While the chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is already delicious on its own, you can serve it in a variety of ways to make it a more complete meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- With Pita Bread: A classic way to serve chicken shawarma is in pita bread, where you can add a generous amount of garlic sauce and fresh vegetables. You can even add some pickles for a tangy twist.
- Over Rice: Another popular option is to serve the grilled chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, which complements the spiced chicken and garlic sauce wonderfully. You can even add a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- As a Wrap: If you’re looking for something a little more portable, you can turn the shawarma into a wrap by using flatbread or a large tortilla. Add the sauce, chicken, and some crunchy veggies, and roll it up for a delicious on-the-go meal.
- With a Salad: For a lighter option, serve the chicken shawarma over a fresh salad. The combination of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and the garlic sauce adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, cooking for a casual weeknight meal, or preparing a special dish for a holiday gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy everyone’s taste buds. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy garlic sauce is something that will leave your guests coming back for more.
Moreover, this recipe can easily be customized to fit your dietary needs. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free (if you omit the yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative), and can be made in bulk for meal prep. It’s also a great dish to serve at barbecues or potlucks, as it can be served warm or at room temperature without losing its flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines rich, bold flavors with healthy ingredients. Its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine bring a unique, aromatic touch to any meal, while its health benefits make it a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious yet nutritious option. The balance of spices, protein from chicken, and the creamy garlic sauce will make it your go-to recipe for a quick dinner, meal prep, or special gathering. It’s versatile, easy to make, and simply irresistible. So, if you haven’t tried making chicken shawarma at home yet, now is the perfect time to give it a try!
