Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce brings bold Middle Eastern flavor straight to your kitchen in under 90 minutes. Juicy, spice-marinated chicken paired with creamy garlic sauce creates a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite street food spot-but it's surprisingly simple to make at home.
This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe delivers tender, aromatic chicken infused with warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. Meanwhile, the garlic sauce adds richness and tang that perfectly balances the savory meat. Whether you serve it in warm pita bread or over rice, this dish satisfies every time.
The first time I made Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home, I expected it to take all day. Instead, after marinating the chicken for just an hour and pan-searing it until golden, the kitchen smelled incredible. When I assembled everything in soft pita with crisp vegetables and that garlicky sauce, it tasted just as good-if not better-than takeout.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix olive oil, spices, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate at least 30 minutes.
- Cook chicken in skillet or grill 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Whisk mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and salt to make garlic sauce.
- Slice chicken and serve in pita or over rice with garlic sauce and fresh vegetables.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Big Flavor in Less Time
Traditional shawarma often slow-roasts on vertical spits. However, this version recreates those flavors in a skillet or grill in about an hour.
Because the chicken marinates quickly and cooks fast, Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce works perfectly for busy weeknights.
Simple Pantry Spices
The magic of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce comes from everyday spices:
- Ground cumin
- Paprika
- Turmeric
- Coriander
- Cinnamon
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
Together, these ingredients create depth without complexity.
Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper
Chicken thighs offer more moisture and flavor, but chicken breasts work well if you monitor cooking time carefully.
For the Garlic Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and olive oil.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken strips and toss until fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, refrigerate up to overnight.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Allow the chicken to rest briefly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
Adjust seasoning as needed. For stronger flavor, add extra garlic or a pinch of black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Serve Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce in:
- Warm pita bread
- Naan
- Over rice
- As a salad bowl
Add fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, red onion, or pickled turnips for contrast and crunch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce provides high-quality protein along with satisfying fats that help keep you full.
Healthier Adjustments
If you'd like to lighten Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce:
- Use skinless chicken breasts
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt
- Add grilled vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers
- Serve in whole-wheat pita or over greens
These swaps maintain flavor while reducing calories.
Serving Ideas to Elevate the Meal
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce pairs beautifully with:
- Tabbouleh salad
- Hummus and warm pita
- Pickled vegetables
- Fresh parsley garnish
For a complete dinner spread, serve family-style with small bowls of toppings so everyone can customize their wrap.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Marinade
The marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor. Even 30 minutes makes a difference.
Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Overloading the Sauce
Although the garlic sauce is delicious, too much can overpower the spices. Drizzle generously but thoughtfully.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep garlic sauce refrigerated separately.
- Reheat chicken gently in a skillet over low heat.
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce also works well for meal prep bowls throughout the week.
FAQ
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I use tofu instead of chicken?
Absolutely. Marinate firm tofu slices for a vegetarian option.
How long can I store the garlic sauce?
Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
What bread works best?
Pita bread is traditional, but naan works well too.
Can I prepare everything ahead of time?
Yes. Marinate chicken and prepare sauce a day in advance.
Conclusion
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce delivers bold spices, juicy chicken, and creamy garlic flavor in a quick, approachable recipe. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Once you try making Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home, you may never go back to takeout again.
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