There is something irresistibly comforting about the flavors in this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. Imagine juicy, tender chicken thighs infused with warm shawarma spices, roasted to perfection, and paired with a velvety, garlicky sauce that brings everything together with a luscious tang. This dish captures the vibrant essence of Middle Eastern cuisine while being wonderfully approachable for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients working harmoniously to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet powerful, each playing a key role in balancing the taste, texture, and color of your dish. From the fragrant spices to the creamy yogurt, every component is essential for delivering that authentic shawarma experience.
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during roasting.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the shawarma seasoning cling to the chicken and promotes a crispy edge.
- 2 tbsp shawarma seasoning: The signature spice mix that brings warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 tsp cumin: Offers a nutty earthiness that deepens the spice profile.
- 1/4 tsp turmeric: Provides a subtle hint of bitterness and a beautiful golden hue.
- 1/2 cup yogurt: The creamy base for the garlic sauce that cools and complements the spices.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise: Enhances the sauce’s richness and silky texture.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Brings bold, aromatic flavor essential to the creamy garlic sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The simple but crucial seasoning that enhances all other flavors.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Then, take your boneless chicken thighs and give them a good rub with olive oil and the shawarma seasoning blend, ensuring every piece is evenly coated to guarantee flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Roast the Chicken to Perfection
Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet with some space between them to let the heat circulate. Roast in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through, tender, and with slightly crispy edges that offer a delightful texture contrast. This step is where the magic of roasting intensifies the spices while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the chicken roasts, prepare the creamy garlic sauce which is a game-changer for this recipe. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended—the creamy sauce will add a luscious, cooling contrast that beautifully complements the spiced chicken.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once your chicken is beautifully roasted, take it out and let it rest for a few minutes. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite stays juicy. Then, slice or shred the chicken depending on your serving preference—either works wonderfully for wrapping or plating.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve the chicken shawarma with your creamy garlic sauce either drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Whether you pile the chicken into pita bread, nestle it over steamed rice, or toss it with fresh salad greens, this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add layers of texture, consider simple garnishes like fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of green, thinly sliced red onions for crunch and sharpness, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a nutty finish. These extras not only brighten the plate but also complement the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines whether paired with classic Middle Eastern sides like warm pita bread, tabbouleh salad, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside fragrant basmati rice or roasted vegetables seasoned lightly with lemon and herbs—each side enhances the dish without overpowering the star: the chicken shawarma.
Creative Ways to Present
You can get creative by turning your Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe into wraps using flatbreads or pita pockets layered with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of the sauce. Alternatively, serve it bowl-style over a bed of grains and greens for a balanced and colorful meal. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for casual lunches and elegant dinners alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and keeps the sauce fresh. Properly stored, your leftovers will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for quick and tasty meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the roasted chicken (without the sauce) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The creamy garlic sauce is best made fresh, but if needed, you can freeze it in small portions for about 1 month and thaw gently, stirring well before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven or on the stovetop to retain its juiciness and slightly crispy edges. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat. Reheat the garlic sauce at room temperature or briefly whisk it to refresh its texture before serving. This way, reheated dishes maintain the delightful harmony of flavors you loved in the original Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide more juiciness and flavor, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook the breasts, as they can dry out faster than thighs.
Is shawarma seasoning difficult to find?
Not at all! Shawarma seasoning is often available at most grocery stores, especially in the spice or international foods aisle. You can also find it online or make a simple blend at home with cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, and coriander.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce vegan?
Yes! Substitute the yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan mayo, and use minced garlic as usual. The flavor and creaminess remain wonderfully satisfying.
What is the best way to serve this chicken for a party?
For entertaining, slice the chicken and provide pita, veggies, and sauce as a build-your-own shawarma station. This interactive approach lets guests customize their wraps and enjoy fresh, flavorful bites all night long.
How spicy is this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?
This recipe leans toward mild to moderate spice, focusing more on aromatic and warm spices than heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if you like things hotter.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe, it’s going to become one of those dishes you crave again and again. It’s rich with authentic spices, beautifully tender chicken, and a luscious garlic sauce that brings everything together perfectly. Whether for a casual meal or when guests come over, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Give it a go—you’ll thank me later!
Print
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
Enjoy a delicious homemade Chicken Shawarma with a creamy garlic sauce. This recipe features tender, spiced chicken thighs roasted to perfection and served with a tangy yogurt-mayonnaise garlic sauce. Perfect for wraps, salads, or served over rice, this Middle Eastern-inspired dish is flavorful and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle the shawarma seasoning, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated with the spices.
- Roast the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked, with edges slightly crispy.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: While the chicken roasts, combine the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well to create a smooth, creamy garlic sauce.
- Rest and Slice the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice or shred the chicken as desired for serving.
- Serve: Plate the chicken alongside the creamy garlic sauce. Serve wrapped in pita bread, with a fresh salad, or over fluffy rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Adjust the garlic amount in the sauce to taste for a milder or stronger flavor.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Shawarma seasoning can be purchased pre-made or mixed at home using cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garlic powder.
