Bring the irresistible aroma of Middle Eastern street food into your kitchen with this homemade Chicken Shawarma! Tender, spiced chicken is marinated, grilled or pan-seared, then sliced and wrapped in warm pita with creamy garlic sauce, crisp veggies, and a hit of lemon. It’s bold, juicy, and packed with authentic flavors — way better than takeout, and easier than you think.

PREP TIME	MARINATION TIME	COOK TIME
15 MIN	2 to 4 hours (overnight best)	20–25 minutes

Ingredients:

🔸 For the Chicken Marinade:

500g boneless chicken thighs (preferred) or breasts

3 tbsp thick yogurt (dahi/Greek yogurt)

1½ tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp olive oil

1½ tsp paprika

1 tsp cumin powder

1 tsp coriander powder

¾ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)

½ tsp cinnamon powder (optional but authentic)

1½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

A pinch of black pepper

💡 Optional: Add 1 tsp garam masala or allspice for an Indian-Middle Eastern fusion twist.

🔸 For Garlic Sauce (Toum-style shortcut):

¼ cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp yogurt

2–3 garlic cloves (grated or crushed)

1 tsp lemon juice

Salt to taste

Mix all until smooth. Chill until ready to use.

🔸 For Assembly:

3–4 pita breads / Lebanese flatbreads / khubz

Sliced onions

Shredded lettuce or cabbage

Tomato slices

Pickled cucumbers or jalapeños (optional)

Garlic sauce or hummus

Fresh coriander or parsley (optional)

Equipments:

Mixing bowl (for marination)

Non-stick pan / cast iron skillet / grill pan (for cooking chicken)

Tongs or spatula

Knife and chopping board

Blender (if making fresh garlic sauce or hummus)

Small bowl (for sauce mixing)

Foil or parchment paper (for wrapping shawarma, optional)

💡 If using an oven or air fryer: use a tray or grill rack to cook chicken evenly with char.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, add yogurt, lemon juice, spices, ginger-garlic paste, and olive oil.
• Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
• Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight gives best flavor).

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat a non-stick pan or grill pan on medium-high heat.
• Drizzle a little oil and place marinated chicken pieces in a single layer.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
• Remove and rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin shawarma-style strips.

🔥 Optional: Grill or air-fry the chicken for extra char and smokiness.

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Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

• In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, yogurt, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
• Stir until smooth. Chill until ready to use.

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Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

• Warm your pita or flatbread slightly on a tawa/pan.
• Spread a generous spoonful of garlic sauce or hummus.
• Layer with sliced shawarma chicken, onions, lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
• Drizzle more sauce on top and wrap tightly in parchment or foil.

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Step 5: Toast & Serve!

• Optional: Lightly toast the wrapped shawarma on a pan or grill press for a golden crust.
• Slice diagonally and serve hot with extra sauce or fries on the side.

Chef’s Notes & Cooking Tips

• Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts for juicier, more flavorful shawarma — they hold up better to grilling or pan-searing.
• Don’t rush the marination — a minimum of 2 hours is needed, but overnight is best for deep flavor and tenderness.
• Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet for that beautiful char and smoky flavor. An air fryer also works great!
• Add a spoon of garam masala or allspice to the marinade for a fusion twist.
• Make the garlic sauce in advance and chill — it becomes creamier and more balanced over time.
• To avoid soggy wraps, don’t overstuff, and always toast the wrap before serving for the best texture.
• Meal prep tip: Cook and slice the chicken in advance — just reheat and assemble wraps fresh!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the shawarma wrap with a side of crispy French fries, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries for a satisfying street-food-style meal.
• Add a small bowl of garlic toum, tahini sauce, or hummus for dipping.
• Pair it with a fresh cucumber yogurt salad or tabbouleh for a refreshing balance to the spices.
• Make it a full platter by serving with pickled veggies, lemon wedges, and warm pita on the side.
• For a light meal, serve the sliced shawarma chicken on top of a Mediterranean salad or inside a lettuce wrap.

💡 These wraps are perfect for lunch boxes, quick dinners, meal prep, or weekend gatherings!

Nutrition Information (Estimated):

🔴 High | 🟡 Medium | 🟢 Low