Spicy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Spicy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

This shawarma recipe brings a bold, spicy twist to the classic Middle Eastern favorite, with a smoky, fiery marinade and a cooling garlic yogurt sauce for balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp plain yogurt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp white vinegar

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1½ tsp ground cumin

• 1½ tsp ground coriander

• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground turmeric

• 1½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)

• 1½ tsp red chili flakes

• 1 tsp sumac (optional, for tanginess)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• 1 tbsp tahini (optional)

For Assembly:

• 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tomato, sliced

• ½ cup shredded lettuce or arugula

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced

• Pickled turnips or jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix all marinade ingredients. Add the chicken and coat thoroughly.

2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) for deeper flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. Broil for the last 3 minutes for a slight char.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through.

• Grill Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 5 minutes per side.

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.

3. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

1. Warm the pita or flatbread.

2. Spread a generous amount of the garlic yogurt sauce.

3. Add sliced chicken, red onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.

4. Top with pickled turnips or jalapeños for an extra kick.

5. Garnish with parsley, wrap it up, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestion:

Pair with crispy fries, a side of hummus, or a refreshing cucumber-tomato salad.