8 Steps to Make Restaurant-Quality Chicken Shawarma at Home

Chicken Shawarma, with its savory, marinated meat and warm spices, is a culinary experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. The tantalizing aroma and the explosion of flavors in every bite make it an unforgettable dish. Originating from the Ottoman Empire, Shawarma has become a global favorite, celebrated for its unique cooking method and delicious blend of spices. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to recreate this mouthwatering classic in your own kitchen, with easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients.

Quick Information

• **Prep Time:** 20 minutes (plus 4-24 hours marinating)
• **Cook Time:** 20 minutes
• **Total Time:** 40 minutes (plus marinating)
• **Difficulty Level:** Medium
• **Servings:** 6
• **Calories:** 450 (per serving)

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Shawarma spice blend (see below)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Shawarma Spice Blend:

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Serving:

• 6 pita breads
• Toum (garlic sauce) or tahini sauce
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Pickled cucumbers or turnips (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Plastic wrap or resealable bag
• Large skillet or grill pan
• Tongs
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Shawarma spice blend, paprika, turmeric, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss well to ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag.
3. **Refrigerate:** Place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight (up to 24 hours) for maximum flavor.
4. **Heat the Skillet:** When ready to cook, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan.
5. **Cook the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
6. **Sear the Chicken:** Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked and has a nice golden-brown sear. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. **Rest and Slice:** Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
8. **Assemble the Shawarma:** Warm the pita bread lightly. Spread a generous amount of Toum or tahini sauce on each pita. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced chicken Shawarma. Top with pickled cucumbers or turnips, if desired. Fold the pita bread in half or roll it up to enjoy.

Pro Tips for Success

• **Marinating Time:** The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.
• **Spice Blend:** Adjust the spices in the Shawarma spice blend to your liking. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add more cayenne pepper.
• **Even Cooking:** Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking and a good sear. Cook in batches if needed.
• **Chicken Selection:** While this recipe calls for chicken thighs, chicken breast can be used as well. Note that chicken breast can dry out more easily, so keep a close eye on it during cooking.
• **Make-Ahead:** The marinated chicken can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving.

How to Serve and Present

Serve your homemade Chicken Shawarma warm, with a side of extra Toum or tahini sauce for dipping. A side of fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes can complement the dish. For a more authentic experience, serve with pickled turnips or cucumbers. Arrange the Shawarma on a platter with colorful toppings for an appealing presentation.

Variations to Try

• **Lamb Shawarma:** Substitute lamb for chicken, using the same marinade and cooking instructions.
• **Vegetarian Shawarma:** Use marinated and grilled halloumi cheese or roasted vegetables like eggplant and zucchini in place of the chicken.
• **Spicy Shawarma:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.

FAQ Section

• **Q: Can I use pre-made Shawarma spice blend?**

  A: Yes, you can use a pre-made Shawarma spice blend if you prefer. Adjust the amount to taste.

• **Q: How do I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?**

  A: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

• **Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?**

  A: Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. Make sure to preheat your grill and cook the chicken until it is fully cooked and slightly charred.

• **Q: What is Toum?**

  A: Toum is a Lebanese garlic sauce, made with garlic, oil, lemon juice, and salt. It has a very strong garlic flavor and is a classic accompaniment to shawarma.

• **Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?**

  A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

Making Chicken Shawarma at home is a rewarding culinary experience. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant’s. The key is in the flavorful marinade and the perfect balance of spices. Now it’s your turn to try this recipe and bring the taste of the Middle East to your kitchen. Share your results in the comments! You might also enjoy our recipes for homemade falafel or hummus to complete your Middle Eastern feast.