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Homemade Chicken Shawarma

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This Homemade Chicken Shawarma recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in bold Middle Eastern spices, yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice. Roasted or pan-seared to perfection, this easy chicken shawarma is perfect for stuffing into warm pita bread, serving over rice, or building flavorful shawarma bowls at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

  • 3 tablespoons plain yogurt

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 2 teaspoons ground paprika

  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving:

  • Pita bread or flatbread

  • Sliced tomatoes

  • Sliced cucumbers

  • Shredded lettuce

  • Red onion, thinly sliced

  • Garlic sauce or tahini sauce

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix well to form a marinade.

  • Add the chicken thighs and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4–8 hours for deeper flavor.

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • To Bake: Arrange marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, until fully cooked and slightly charred at the edges.

  • To Pan-Cook: Cook chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

  • Serve in warm pita bread or over rice with fresh vegetables and your favorite sauce

Notes

Chicken thighs provide the best flavor and juiciness.Marinating longer enhances tenderness and spice depth.Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.Resting the chicken before slicing keeps it juicy.Yogurt helps tenderize the meat but can be substituted if needed.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/homemade-chicken-shawarma/