Oh my goodness, have you ever tried Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce? It’s a total game-changer! This dish has its roots in the vibrant streets of the Middle East, where the aroma of marinated chicken wafts through the air and tempts everyone to stop by for a bite. I remember the first time I had it at a little food stall—my taste buds danced with joy! The tender, spiced chicken paired with that creamy garlic sauce is just divine. Trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll be hooked! It’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up. So, let’s dive into this flavorful journey and get cooking together!
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless for tender bites
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!)
- 1/4 cup olive oil, a rich base for marinating
- 2 tbsp lemon juice, to add that zesty brightness
- 2 tsp ground cumin, for that warm, earthy flavor
- 2 tsp ground paprika, giving a lovely smokiness
- 1 tsp ground turmeric, for a touch of color and health benefits
- 1 tsp ground coriander, to enhance the spice blend
- Salt and pepper to taste, don’t skip this for seasoning!
- 1 cup plain yogurt, the creamy base for our sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, to make the sauce extra luscious
- 1 tbsp vinegar, balancing out the richness in the sauce
How to Prepare Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce! It’s a simple process, and I promise you’ll love every step. First, we’ll start with marinating that chicken, which is key to infusing all those amazing flavors.
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix! Now, add the chicken thighs, making sure they’re well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour—though overnight is even better for maximum flavor. Just imagine the aroma when it’s time to cook!
Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If you’re grilling, it should be around 375°F (190°C). Once it’s hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill or a baking tray. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it looks golden and smells irresistible!
Make the Garlic Sauce
While the chicken cooks, let’s whip up that creamy garlic sauce! In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and vinegar. Stir it all until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the garlic to your liking—if you’re like me, you might want to add a little extra garlic for an even bolder flavor!
Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken is done, slice it up and serve it with that luscious garlic sauce on the side. I love pairing it with warm pita bread and fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes. You can even throw in some pickles for a nice crunch! Trust me, this is a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—get this delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes!
- Loaded with flavor—each bite is bursting with spices and that creamy garlic goodness.
- Healthy ingredients—packed with protein from the chicken and made with wholesome yogurt.
- Perfect for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
- Customizable—serve it with your favorite sides or toppings for a personal twist.
- Kid-friendly—this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
- Great for gatherings—wow your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser!
Tips for Success
To make your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce turn out perfectly every time, here are my go-to tips! First, don’t rush the marination—letting the chicken sit overnight really enhances the flavors, so plan ahead if you can. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the grill or pan; this can lead to steaming instead of that lovely char we crave. Keep an eye on the cooking time; chicken thighs can dry out if overcooked, so use a meat thermometer to check for that perfect 165°F (75°C).
If you want to switch things up, try adding some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or even a pinch of cayenne for heat! And for those who love a bit of crunch, serve with some crispy fried onions on top. Trust me, these little changes can take your shawarma to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delightful Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a healthy meal! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, chicken breasts can work as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can dry out faster.
What should I serve with Chicken Shawarma? I love serving it with warm pita bread, fresh veggies, and a side of tabbouleh or a simple salad. It’s perfect for creating your own wraps!
Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time? Yes! The garlic sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
Is Chicken Shawarma gluten-free? Yes, as long as you serve it without pita bread or use gluten-free pita. The chicken and sauce are naturally gluten-free!
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before enjoying it again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce fresh and tasty, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay good for up to 3 days, but I bet it won’t last that long! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium heat. This helps to keep the chicken juicy and prevents it from drying out. Just add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep the moisture locked in. Heat it gently, turning occasionally until warmed through—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick. If you prefer, you can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat, just be cautious not to overdo it—nobody wants rubbery chicken! Enjoy those delicious leftovers just as much as the first time around!
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Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce: 7 Flavorful Secrets
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with marinated chicken and a creamy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp vinegar
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
- Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, and vinegar to make garlic sauce.
- Slice cooked chicken and serve with garlic sauce.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate overnight.
- Serve with pita bread and vegetables.
- Adjust garlic in the sauce according to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Garlic Sauce, Middle Eastern Cuisine