If you’ve ever craved juicy, perfectly seasoned shawarma like the kind sold by street vendors, this recipe will bring that same aroma and taste straight into your kitchen. Shawarma is one of the most loved Middle Eastern dishes — tender meat, warm spices, garlic sauce, and soft wraps all coming together in one delicious bite. The best part? You can easily make it at home with simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Shawarma Recipe
- Easy to prepare — no complicated steps
- Uses simple ingredients found in any supermarket
- Perfect for meal prep, dinner parties, or quick lunches
- Can be served in wraps, bowls, or plates
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 kg boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Garlic Sauce (Toum) or substitute with mayonnaise-garlic sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- Pita bread or wraps
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced onions
- Lettuce or cabbage
- Pickles or jalapeños
- Fries (optional but highly recommended!)
How to Make Chicken Shawarma
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a big bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices.
Add the chicken and coat it well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–4 hours (overnight gives the best flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
You can cook it in any of these ways:
- Pan-fry: Cook on medium heat until golden and cooked through.
- Oven: Bake at 200°C for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air-fryer: Cook at 190°C for 12–15 minutes.
Once cooked, slice the chicken into thin strips.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust to taste.
4. Assemble Your Shawarma
Warm your pita or wraps.
Spread garlic sauce → add chicken → top with salad, onions, tomatoes, pickles → roll tightly.
Optional: Toast the wrap in a pan for 1–2 minutes for extra flavor.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with fries inside the wrap for classic Middle Eastern style
- Pair with hummus and tabbouleh
- Make a “shawarma bowl” by adding rice instead of bread
Tips for Perfect Shawarma
- Use chicken thighs — they stay juicy.
- Don’t skip the yogurt — it tenderizes the meat.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- Slice after cooking to get that shawarma-style texture.
- Toast the wrap lightly for a more authentic taste.
