Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Welcome back, dear foodies! Today, I am thrilled to share with you an Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe that has become a cherished favorite in my household. Imagine succulent, marinated chicken, grilled to perfection and tucked into soft pita bread alongside a medley of crisp, fresh vegetables. Finish it off with a generous dollop of creamy hummus, and you have a dish that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of the Middle East. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Whip it up, and you’ll instantly transport your taste buds to a bustling, aromatic marketplace. Let’s get cooking!

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and massage the spice mixture thoroughly into the chicken. Let this marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and have a nice char.
4. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
5. Warm the pita bread by placing them briefly on the grill or in a hot skillet.
6. To assemble, spread a generous layer of hummus on each pita bread. Top with slices of chicken, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
7. Roll up the pita bread or fold it in half, and serve immediately.

Helpful Tips:

• If you’re short on time, use pre-marinated chicken from the grocery store.
• For a lighter option, serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of mixed greens instead of in pita bread.

Storage Instructions:

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
• You can freeze the marinated raw chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Pairings:

• Serve with a side of tabbouleh or a simple green salad.
• A refreshing glass of mint lemonade or yogurt-based lassi pairs perfectly with the robust flavors of the shawarma.

At Zynahz, we believe that every meal is an opportunity to bring joy and creativity into the kitchen. We hope this Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe adds a bit of zest and warmth to your family dinners. Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with us. Tag us on social media and sign up for our newsletter for more delightful recipes. Happy cooking!