Dinner

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

ByNaomi Fletcher February 8, 2026February 8, 2026

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Introduction

What if I told you that crafting an authentic, mouthwatering Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home takes only 90 minutes? This recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a timeless Middle Eastern favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it balances ease and deliciousness to impress your family and friends.

A white bowl filled with several layers: the base is a lightly toasted flatbread, topped with thick pieces of grilled chicken showing a dark brown char with a crispy skin texture, scattered fresh green parsley leaves add a pop of color, and creamy white sauce flecked with black herbs is being poured from above, covering the grilled chicken and adding a smooth, rich layer. The setting is a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is holding the container of sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Sauce:
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Preheat your grill or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a few drops of oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
Step 3: Place the marinated chicken on the grill or pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the garlic amount for extra kick if desired.
Step 5: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Serve in pita bread or on a plate drizzled with garlic sauce. Add fresh vegetables, pickled turnips, or a simple salad to complete the meal.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with marinated mushrooms or tofu.
Use Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamier texture in the marinade.
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or silken tofu in the garlic sauce for a lighter version.
Serve with whole-wheat pita for extra fiber and a healthier boost.
Add grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more vegetables and nutrients.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to enhance flavor and presentation.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. For meal prep, marinate the chicken the night before and prepare the garlic sauce separately. When reheating, warm the chicken gently in a pan over low heat, then drizzle with fresh garlic sauce to maintain flavor.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds several layers of food starting with a base of warm, light brown flatbread folded around crispy grilled chicken pieces that are golden brown with slightly blackened, charred edges. The chicken is cut into thick strips and is topped with fresh, bright green chopped herbs sprinkled evenly throughout. A creamy, pale white sauce flecked with black herbs is being poured from above by a woman's hand, flowing thickly over the chicken and herbs. In the background, a blurred lemon wedge adds a soft splash of yellow. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, chicken breasts work well. Just monitor cooking time closely, as breasts can dry out faster than thighs.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The garlic sauce can be made up to three days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Is it necessary to grill the chicken, or can I bake it?

Grilling adds authentic flavor, but baking at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, works perfectly fine.

What type of pita bread is best to use?

Whole-wheat pita adds nutritional value, but regular pita bread is also delicious. Choose based on your preference.

Is this dish suitable for meal preparation?

Yes, this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is ideal for meal prep. Marinate and store the chicken in the fridge, then cook fresh or reheat as needed throughout the week.

Naomi Fletcher