If you are craving a dish that bursts with warm spices and rich, velvety flavors, then this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. The tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with a blend of shawarma seasoning, paprika, cumin, and turmeric come together perfectly with a luscious garlic-infused creamy sauce that elevates every bite. This recipe brings the magic of Middle Eastern street food right into your kitchen, promising a celebration of taste, texture, and color that will leave you and your loved ones coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe just right relies on simple yet vibrant ingredients that enhance every aspect of the dish — from the tender texture of the chicken to the bright and tangy notes of the sauce.
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juiciness and flavor absorption; thighs stay tender and succulent when roasted.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices stick and adds a subtle fruity richness while roasting.
- 2 tbsp shawarma seasoning: The heart of the recipe, it brings a warm, aromatic blend of spices that define traditional shawarma.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky depth and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 tsp cumin: Offers an earthy, nutty undertone that enhances the complexity of the flavor.
- 1/4 tsp turmeric: Imparts a beautiful golden color and subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 cup yogurt: Brings creamy tang while tenderizing the chicken; essential for the garlic sauce.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise: Adds richness and smoothness, making the garlic sauce irresistibly creamy.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Delivers a sharp, fresh punch of flavor that mingles beautifully in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and accentuates the natural flavors of all ingredients.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right to cook the chicken evenly, achieving a tender inside with slightly crispy edges. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure the meat doesn’t stick and cleanup is easy.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Next, rub the chicken thighs generously with olive oil and shawarma seasoning, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This is where the magic starts, as the spices will deeply infuse the meat during roasting, creating that iconic shawarma flavor.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Place the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; you want them to be a little crispy and caramelized without drying out the meat. The aroma filling your kitchen will be impossible to resist!
Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the chicken roasts, combine the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well until it becomes a smooth, creamy sauce that will balance the bold spices on the chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once the roasting is complete, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful. Then, slice or shred the chicken to your preference — perfect for wrapping or plating.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve the chicken with that luscious creamy garlic sauce either drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping. This step brings it all together in a blissful harmony of flavor and texture.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe from delicious to dazzling. Fresh parsley or cilantro sprigs add a pop of green and a fresh herbal note. Thinly sliced red onions or pickled vegetables bring brightness and crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken and sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try fluffy basmati rice to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. Crisp, refreshing cucumber and tomato salad provide a cool counterpoint. For a lighter option, warm pita bread or flatbreads are perfect for wrapping the chicken and making each bite portable and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving your chicken shawarma as a vibrant wrap, layering the sliced chicken and creamy garlic sauce with fresh veggies inside a warm pita. Alternatively, create a beautiful shawarma bowl by arranging the chicken, sauce, grains, and salad components in a bowl style for a modern, Instagram-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover roasted chicken and creamy garlic sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain the texture and flavor integrity, so reheat the chicken and add fresh sauce as desired.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe longer, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze the creamy garlic sauce separately to avoid texture changes when thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve its juiciness and crisp edges. Add a fresh drizzle or spoonful of the creamy garlic sauce afterward to bring back that fresh, luscious flavor that makes this dish so special.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, but keep in mind they are less forgiving and can dry out more easily, so watch the cooking time closely and consider marinating a bit longer.
Is shawarma seasoning easy to find?
Yes, many grocery stores carry premade shawarma spice blends, or you can make your own at home by mixing commonly used spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garlic powder.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce actually benefits from resting for a little while as it allows the garlic to infuse the yogurt and mayonnaise fully, enhancing the flavor. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
What’s the best way to serve this recipe for a crowd?
Consider turning it into a shawarma bar with pita, sauces, veggies, and rice so guests can customize their plates. Serve the sliced chicken warm and let everyone build their perfect plate.
Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting?
Definitely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce. Just be sure to watch the chicken closely to prevent burning and maintain juiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is surprisingly approachable. With its vibrant spices and irresistible sauce, it’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every flavorful bite as much as I do!
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Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Chicken Shawarma recipe features tender, flavorful boneless chicken thighs marinated in traditional shawarma spices and oven-roasted to perfection. Accompanied by a creamy, garlicky yogurt mayonnaise sauce, it’s an easy and delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish perfect for serving with pita, salad, or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken Shawarma
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp shawarma seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Marinate Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs evenly with olive oil and sprinkle with shawarma seasoning, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Roast Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has slightly crispy edges.
- Prepare Garlic Sauce: While the chicken cooks, mix together yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices before slicing or shredding.
- Serve: Serve the sliced chicken drizzled with or accompanied by the creamy garlic sauce. Enjoy with pita bread, a fresh salad, or over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Shawarma seasoning typically includes cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, and other Middle Eastern spices; feel free to adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier garlic sauce texture.
- For extra crispy edges, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of roasting, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This dish can be prepared ahead; the sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with fresh vegetables or pickles for authentic Middle Eastern flavors.
