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An extreme close-up of a chicken shawarma wrap, showcasing the perfectly cooked chicken, fresh lettuce, and tomatoes.

Chicken Shawarma Recipe (Authentic Flavor, So Easy!)

This easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe brings authentic Middle Eastern street food to your kitchen. Get perfectly spiced, juicy, and tender chicken with our simple marinade and versatile cooking methods.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into thin strips
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
For Serving
  • 8 pita breads warmed
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sliced red onion
  • Garlic Yogurt Sauce or Tahini Sauce

Equipment

  • 1 Large Bowl
  • 1 Skillet or Baking Sheet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Toss well to ensure every piece is completely coated.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  4. Cook the chicken using your preferred method: OVEN: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. SKILLET: Heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches for 4-6 minutes per side. GRILL: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. Serve the cooked chicken shawarma warm in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and your favorite sauce.

Notes

For the most authentic flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking on the skillet to ensure the chicken gets a nice char.
Chicken thighs will result in a more tender and juicy final product.