Grilled Chicken Shawarma: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Delight

Grilled Chicken Shawarma is a savory and aromatic dish that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. This easy-to-make recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices, then grilled to perfection for a smoky, juicy flavor. Shawarma is a beloved street food in many countries, and this grilled version is a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the traditional method. Perfect for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for bold, spiced flavors.

The marinated chicken is infused with the warmth of cumin, paprika, and turmeric, while a hint of lemon juice adds brightness. Grilled to a crispy, golden exterior with a tender interior, the chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to pita bread or rice. Whether served in a wrap, on a platter, or as part of a larger spread, Grilled Chicken Shawarma offers an authentic and flavorful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With only a few minutes of prep time, this recipe comes together fast. The chicken marinates for just 30 minutes, and grilling takes only about 15 minutes.

2. Full of Flavor

The combination of spices—cumin, paprika, and turmeric—creates a complex, aromatic flavor profile that’s both savory and zesty.

3. Healthy and Lean

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures a juicy, flavorful meal without excess fat. It’s a great lean protein option for healthy eating.

4. Versatile

Grilled Chicken Shawarma is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a variety of sides like hummus, tabbouleh, or roasted vegetables, or wrap it in pita with garlic sauce.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is easy to make in bulk and can be stored in the fridge for several days, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Ground cumin
• Ground paprika
• Ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.
• Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or cauliflower florets.
• Add More Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro can be added to the marinade or as a garnish to enhance the freshness of the dish.
• Serve with Yogurt Sauce: Top the chicken shawarma with a tangy yogurt-based sauce, such as tzatziki, for added creaminess.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Coat them thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the grilled chicken shawarma with your favorite sides, such as rice, pita bread, salad, or a yogurt sauce, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate for Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
• Grill on High Heat: Make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat for a nice sear on the chicken. This will help lock in the juices.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: If you’re cooking multiple pieces of chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the grill. Give each piece enough space for even cooking.

How to Serve

Grilled Chicken Shawarma is delicious served in many ways. You can serve it on a platter with sides like couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. Alternatively, wrap the grilled chicken in pita bread with garlic sauce, hummus, and fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for a classic shawarma wrap. It also pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Grilled chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled, cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat grilled chicken shawarma in a skillet over low heat, in the microwave, or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may be drier than thighs. To prevent this, you can brine the chicken breasts before marinating.

2. How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating overnight will give the chicken even more flavor.

3. Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Can I make the marinade without turmeric?

Yes, if you don’t have turmeric, you can substitute with more paprika or a pinch of curry powder.

5. Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or on a stovetop using a heavy skillet.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the marinade?

While the marinade is primarily for the chicken, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the grill alongside the chicken for added flavor.

7. Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not particularly spicy, but you can add chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like it hot.

8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

9. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to thaw frozen chicken before marinating to ensure it absorbs the flavors well.

10. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Feel free to experiment with additional spices like coriander, cinnamon, or garlic powder in the marinade for added depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Shawarma is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the tastes of the Middle East to your kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe is versatile, healthy, and full of bold flavors. Give it a try, and enjoy the mouthwatering taste of homemade shawarma!

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