This Chicken Shawarma recipe offers a flavor explosion with savory spices, juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.
1.5lbChicken Thighs or Breasts, skinless and boneless, sliced into ½-inch thick strips
2tablespoonOlive Oil, divided
2teaspoonGround Cumin
1teaspoonPaprika
1teaspoonGarlic Powder
1teaspoonCayenne Pepper, or to taste
1teaspoonGround Coriander
1teaspoonSalt
0.5teaspoonGround Black Pepper
6smallPita Bread
2cupsRomaine Lettuce, chopped
1mediumTomato, diced
2piecesPersian or Mini Cucumbers, diced
0.25cupFresh Parsley, finely chopped
1cupPlain Greek Yogurt
1tablespoonFresh Lemon Juice
0.5tablespoonDijon Mustard (optional)
0.5teaspoonGarlic, minced
0.25teaspoonSalt
0.25teaspoonGround Black Pepper
Instructions
In a large Ziploc bag, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and all the seasonings. Press the air out of the bag, seal it tightly, and massage to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Spread the marinated chicken evenly in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking pan.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and edges are crispy. Alternatively, you can air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, dijon mustard if using, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well mixed.
Allow the chicken to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve it in warm pita bread, topped with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and parsley. Drizzle with the garlic yogurt sauce and enjoy immediately.
Notes
For the most flavorful chicken, let it marinate overnight if possible.
Using an air fryer cuts cooking time in half.
Spread chicken in a single layer to ensure it cooks evenly.
Warm your pita bread before serving for the best texture and flavor.