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chicken-shawarma-with-garlic-sauce-recipe--easy---delicious----k-popkitchen_feature

Authentic Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Bring the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern street food to your kitchen with this irresistible chicken shawarma featuring tender, aromatic chicken strips wrapped in warm pita bread with creamy yogurt garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe delivers authentic flavor with simple ingredients that will transport you straight to the streets of Beirut.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced thin
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp cardamom
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 6-8 pita bread rounds
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Fresh parsley
  • Pickles (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all spices in a medium bowl. Add sliced chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
  2. Make the garlic sauce by combining Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken strips for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and nicely charred. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes if grilling isn't an option.
  4. Warm pita bread briefly on grill or in oven. Spread garlic sauce on each pita, add grilled chicken strips, then top with sliced tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and pickles if using. Roll tightly and serve immediately.

Notes

Slice chicken thin for faster cooking and better marinade absorption. Don't skip the marinade time - even 30 minutes makes a huge difference. Use high heat for authentic shawarma character. Warm pita bread for better pliability and eating experience.