Experience the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with our homemade Chicken Shawarma recipe. This dish is a culinary journey that combines succulent marinated chicken, aromatic spices, and a tantalizing yogurt sauce. Perfect for four people, it’s a delightful and savory dish that’s bound to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of the Mediterranean. Let’s embark on this delicious adventure!
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tahini (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Process:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, plain yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, tahini (if using), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well, then refrigerate until ready to use.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the Chicken:
- Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Shawarma:
- Warm the pita bread or flatbreads. Place a generous spoonful of the garlic sauce in the center.
- Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions on top of the sauce.
- Layer the grilled chicken on the vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Roll and Serve:
- Fold the sides of the pita over the toppings and roll it up, creating a wrap. Secure with parchment paper or foil if needed.
- Serve your delectable Chicken Shawarma wraps immediately and savor the exotic flavors.
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