Description
This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce features spiced, juicy grilled chicken paired with a tangy garlic sauce, all wrapped in warm pita and topped with fresh veggies. It’s a flavorful, customizable Middle Eastern-inspired meal perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tbsp plain yogurt
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground turmeric
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup Greek yogurt
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional: Warm pita bread, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, fresh parsley or cilantro, pickled turnips or pickles
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all spices. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- To make the garlic sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil until smooth.
- Warm pita bread, spread garlic sauce, and layer sliced chicken and toppings of choice. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Notes
- Use all Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Add shredded cabbage or lettuce for crunch.
- Substitute tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Harissa or chili paste can add extra heat.
- Try lavash or lettuce wraps for a low-carb variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg