Chicken Shwarma Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 11, 2025

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Chicken Shwarma Recipe: A Flavor Explosion in Your Kitchen

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of the Middle East? Then get ready to master the art of making delicious chicken shwarma at home! This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a flavorful and authentic experience. Let's dive in!

What is Chicken Shwarma?

Chicken shwarma is a beloved Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dish featuring marinated chicken that's cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The result is incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken with a slightly charred exterior. It's typically served in pita bread with various toppings like hummus, tahini, tabbouleh, and pickles. But the star of the show is undoubtedly the perfectly marinated and cooked chicken.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Adjust quantities as needed.

• For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes (thighs are best for juiciness!)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (full-fat for richness)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is ideal)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• For Serving (suggestions):

  • Pita bread
  • Hummus
  • Tahini sauce
  • Chopped tomatoes
  • Chopped cucumbers
  • Pickled turnips (or other pickled vegetables)
  • Tabbouleh

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Add the chicken cubes and ensure they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the marinade time, the more flavorful the chicken will be!

2. Cook the Chicken: You can cook this several ways:

   • On a Skewer: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill, broil, or pan-fry until cooked through and slightly charred.
   • In a Pan: For a quicker method, you can pan-fry the chicken in batches over medium-high heat until cooked through.
   • In the Oven: Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

3. Assemble the Shwarma: Warm the pita bread. Spread hummus and tahini sauce inside. Add the cooked chicken, along with your favorite toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled turnips.

Tips for the Best Chicken Shwarma:

• Don't skip the marinade! The marinade is key to the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
• Use high-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs and spices will make a big difference in the taste.
• Don't overcrowd the pan. If pan-frying or grilling, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Let the chicken rest: Before slicing or serving, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Add some sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or honey in the marinade can balance the spices.
• Use different protein: Try this recipe with lamb or beef.

Conclusion:

This homemade chicken shwarma recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily recreate the magic of this beloved Middle Eastern dish in your own kitchen. Enjoy the amazing flavors and the satisfying feeling of creating something truly delicious! Remember to share your culinary masterpiece with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!