Chicken shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its tender, marinated chicken, flavorful spices, and aromatic garlic sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. Whether you've savored it at a street food vendor, a local restaurant, or you're simply looking to try your hand at making it at home, this article will guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering homemade chicken shawarma.
The Essence of Chicken Shawarma:
Shawarma, believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, has become a global favorite. While traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, you can easily recreate the same flavors in your kitchen with a few simple steps.
Ingredients you'll need:
For the chicken marinade:
1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
For the garlic sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt to taste
For the Shawarma Wrap:
4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions
Fresh parsley leaves
Hot sauce (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, combine minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips and mix it with the marinade. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or longer for enhanced flavor.
2. Prepare the garlic sauce:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
3. Cook the chicken.
Heat up a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. A grill outside can also be used.
Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet or grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
4. Assemble the Shawarma Wraps:
Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in the oven or on the stovetop.
Lay out each pita and spread a generous amount of the garlic sauce on it.
Place a portion of the cooked chicken on each pita.
Top with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley leaves and a drizzle of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Roll and Serve the shawarma
Homemade chicken shawarmas:
Homemade chicken shawarmas are not only delicious but also offer the joy of crafting a well-loved international dish right in your own kitchen. These wraps make for a perfect meal, whether for a quick lunch, a delightful dinner, or a weekend treat. Experiment with different toppings and sauces to suit your taste, and enjoy the rich and tantalizing flavors of chicken shawarma.
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