Homemade Chicken Shawarma Feast: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 500g boneless chicken breast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 4 pita breads
  • 1 cup chopped lettuce
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup tahini sauce

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into thin strips and place them in a bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cardamom, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to form the marinade.
  3. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix well. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  4. Heat a grill or a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden color.
  5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thinner strips.
  7. Warm up the pita breads in the oven or on the stovetop.
  8. To assemble the shawarma, spread a layer of tahini sauce on the pita bread. Add a layer of the cooked chicken, followed by the chopped vegetables. Roll the pita bread tightly to form a wrap.
  9. Repeat the process with the remaining pita breads and fillings.
  10. Enjoy the shawarma while it's still warm.

Tools for making

  • Grill or Pan - Used to cook the marinated chicken.
  • Bowl - To marinate the chicken and mix the marinade ingredients.
  • Knife - To cut the chicken into thin strips and slice the cooked chicken.
  • Cutting Board - Provides a surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
  • Oven or Stovetop - Used to warm up the pita breads.

Recipe variations

  • Use beef or lamb instead of chicken for a different protein option.
  • Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pita bread for a healthier or dietary-specific alternative.
  • Experiment with different marinades such as yogurt-based marinades or adding spices like paprika or cinnamon.
  • Add additional toppings like pickles, olives, or hot sauce for added flavor.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh.
  • Include grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added texture and flavor.
  • Try a different sauce or dressing such as garlic sauce, tzatziki, or a spicy mayo.
  • Add a side dish like tabbouleh salad or hummus to complete the meal.
  • For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapenos or sprinkle chili flakes on top.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade, such as oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of the Middle East with this delicious and authentic Chicken Shawarma recipe. Shawarma is a popular street food in many countries, loved for its savory flavors and the freshness of the ingredients. This recipe will guide you through the process of preparing your own homemade shawarma using boneless chicken breasts marinated in a blend of spices and then grilled to perfection. The cooked chicken is then served in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. While the preparation requires some time for marinating the chicken to absorb all the flavors, the actual cooking process is quite straightforward. In the end, you will have a flavorful and satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to make some mouth-watering shawarma!

Common questions

  1. How long should I marinate the chicken? - It is best to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, marinate it overnight.
  2. Can I use a different type of meat? - Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or even tofu if you prefer.
  3. Can I grill the chicken instead of using a pan? - Yes, you can grill the chicken over medium heat until it is fully cooked and has a nice charred flavor.
  4. Can I use a different sauce instead of tahini? - Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite sauce such as garlic sauce, yogurt sauce, or hot sauce.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the shawarma? - Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, pickles, or olives to customize your shawarma.
  6. How should I warm up the pita breads? - You can warm up the pita breads in the oven at a low temperature or heat them on a stovetop pan until they are soft and pliable.
  7. Can I freeze leftover shawarma? - It is not recommended to freeze leftover shawarma as it may affect the texture and taste of the ingredients.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Shawarma is a hallmark of Middle Eastern street food. Tracing its roots back to the Ottoman Empire, it was originally prepared with lamb or mutton. The term "shawarma" itself comes from the Turkish word "çevirme", meaning "turning", a nod to the traditional method of roasting the meat on a vertical spit. As the Ottoman Empire expanded, shawarma traveled across borders and cultures, each adding their unique twists. Today, it's a global dish, with different regions using different meats including chicken, beef, and even turkey. Interestingly, it's the method of cooking that gives shawarma its name, not the ingredients, so variations around the world can be wildly different but remain true to their roots.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.