Middle Eastern cuisine has gifted the world with a diverse array of flavors, and at the heart of it lies the celebrated and tantalizing dish known as Chicken Shawarma. For home cooks and food enthusiasts, mastering the art of preparing this savory indulgence is not only a culinary adventure but a way to experience the authentic taste of the Middle East. In this detailed guide, we’ll unveil the essence of Chicken Shawarma and provide you with expert tips to craft the perfect homemade shawarma experience.

Table of Content

1. What is Chicken Shawarma?

2. What is Shawarma Made Of?

3. What Spices Are in Chicken Shawarma?

4. How to Make Shawarma at Home

5. How to Serve Chicken Shawarma

6. What Sauce for Shawarma?

What is Chicken Shawarma?

Shawarma's origin can be traced back to the Middle East, where the traditional method of slow-cooking meat on a rotating vertical spit creates incredibly tender and juicy results. The meat is often shaved off and served in various ways, typically in a pita bread wrap or with a side of rice. Chicken Shawarma specifically is prepared with marinated slices of chicken, infused with an assortment of aromatic spices, and then grilled to perfection.

What is Shawarma Made Of?

To capture the authenticity of a Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma, you'll need to focus on quality and balance. The ingredients for the dish are relatively straightforward but require attention to detail.

Ingredients for Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yoghurt

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon ground coriander

• 1 tablespoon ground cardamom

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 2 teaspoons turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Shawarma Elements:

• Sliced or shaved chicken from the marinade

• Pita bread or flatbreads

• Sliced tomatoes

• Sliced cucumbers

• Chopped fresh parsley or coriander

• Tahini sauce or garlic sauce for serving

These ingredients symbolize the rich and bold flavors of the Middle East, ready to be combined into a delectable serving of Chicken Shawarma.

What Spices Are in Chicken Shawarma?

The medley of spices in Chicken Shawarma is essential for creating its distinctive taste. Each spice lends a layer of complexity, from the earthiness of cumin to the fragrance of coriander. The following spices combine to produce the quintessential Chicken Shawarma flavor:

• Cumin: Provides a warm and earthy base note.

• Coriander: Brings a burst of citrus-like flavor and a slightly sweet undertone.

• Cardamom: Offers a floral and spicy profile, complementing the other spices.

• Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and vibrant color to the marinade.

• Turmeric: Grants a mild peppery flavor and a deep yellow hue.

• Cloves: Introduce a pungent, sweet taste with a hint of bitterness.

• Cayenne Pepper: Throws in a dose of heat, customizable to your preference.

How to Make Shawarma at Home

Preparation for shawarma requires some patience, from marinating the meat to assembling the ideal spread of accompaniments. It's a delightful dance of flavors where each ingredient plays a vital role. The chicken is marinated overnight to absorb the zesty, aromatic goodness. Here's a step-by-step chicken shawarma recipe:

Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe :

Marinating the Chicken

1. Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

2. Slice the chicken breasts into even, thin strips for even cooking and absorption of flavors.

3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they're coated thoroughly.

4. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, but ideally overnight, to lock in the flavors.

Cooking the Chicken

1. When ready to cook, preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Grill the marinated chicken strips until they are cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

3. Remove from the heat and allow to rest for a few minutes.

Assembling the Shawarma

1. Warm up your pita bread or flatbreads to make them pliable.

2. Add the grilled chicken strips to the bread, followed by your choice of sliced vegetables.

3. Drizzle with your preferred sauce, such as tahini or garlic sauce.

4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or coriander for freshness.

Your homemade Chicken Shawarma is ready to be devoured. The heat from the spices, the tenderness of the chicken, and the freshness of the vegetables, all harmonize to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma

The versatility of Chicken Shawarma allows for various serving options. You can serve it as:

• A hearty wrap in warm pita or flatbread with your desired accompaniments.

• A flavorful topping for a bed of rice, such as basmati or jasmine rice.

• A light salad by tossing the shawarma with mixed greens and a vinaigrette.

The choice of serving depends on your preference and occasion, but each method promises a delightful and satisfying meal.

What Sauce for Shawarma?

Sauce is an integral part of any shawarma experience. The right sauce can enhance the flavors and provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory chicken and warm spices. Common sauces paired with Chicken Shawarma include:

• Tahini Sauce: A paste made from ground sesame seeds, whisked with lemon juice, garlic, and water. It offers a nutty flavor and a velvety texture.

• Garlic Sauce: A rich and creamy sauce made from garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and egg white. It packs a robust, garlicky punch.

• Yogurt Sauce: A simple mixture of plain yogurt with a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of salt, offering a light and refreshing complement to the shawarma.

Experiment with homemade or store-bought varieties of these sauces to find your favorite combination.

Chicken Shawarma is more than a dish — it's an exploration of taste and culture. By understanding the key components and techniques, you can bring the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine to your own kitchen. Whether you seek a quick and satisfying meal or aim to impress with a vibrant and aromatic dinner, Chicken Shawarma has you covered. Prepare to savor the warm spices, succulent chicken, and collaborative feast of fresh ingredients that make up this beloved Middle Eastern specialty. It's time to unleash your inner shawarma master and enjoy every savory moment of the experience.

Chicken Shawarma (Middle Eastern)

 Author : James Garcia | İstanbulMediterranean  Prep: 10 minutes

 mins  Cook: 15 minutes

 mins  Total: 25 mins