Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

If you’ve ever craved that irresistible, flavorful Middle Eastern street food, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe. Easy to prepare, bursting with warm spices, and topped with a luscious garlic sauce, this dish brings the tastes of a shawarma stand right into your kitchen. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or impressing friends on the weekend, this recipe promises juicy, tender chicken packed with personality and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavors: The perfect blend of spices gives that familiar warm, smoky shawarma taste without needing fancy equipment.
• Quick & Easy Prep: Minimal ingredients and simple steps get dinner on your table fast.
• Creamy Garlic Sauce Magic: This sauce adds a dreamy, tangy creaminess that balances the spices beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as wraps, bowls, or even salads—flexibility to suit your mood.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity fool you—each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture in the Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce. From fragrant spices to fresh ingredients, they all work in harmony for that unforgettable result.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up shawarma spices and staying moist during cooking.
• Yogurt: Acts as a tenderizing marinade base while adding a subtle tang.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses a fragrant punch into both the chicken and the sauce.
• Spices (cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, black pepper): The heart of shawarma’s warm, earthy flavor profile.
• Olive oil: Helps meld the spices into the chicken and crisps it up on the skillet or grill.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and cuts through richness.
• Mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (for the garlic sauce): Creates the creamy, tangy dressing essential for authentic flavor and smooth texture.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Adds that fresh, vibrant finish either in the sauce or as garnish.
• Pita bread or flatbreads: Ideal for rolling up your shawarma or serving on the side.

Variations for Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

One of the joys of making Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is how easily you can tweak it to fit different tastes or dietary needs. These ideas will keep your meals fresh and exciting.

• Beef or Lamb Shawarma: Swap chicken for thinly sliced beef or lamb for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use roasted cauliflower or mushrooms marinated in the same spices for a delicious meat-free option.
• Dairy-Free Garlic Sauce: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado or tahini to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your marinade or sauce for an extra heat boost.
• Add Pickled Veggies: Toppings like pickled turnips or cucumbers add crunch and tangy contrast.

this …

How to Make Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and the spice blend into a smooth marinade. This mixture is key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with that signature shawarma warmth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken thighs in the marinade, coating thoroughly. Let it rest for at least one hour, though overnight in the fridge will give the best flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to create the luscious garlic sauce that perfectly complements the spiced chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, then cook the marinated chicken thighs until golden brown with a slightly crisp edge, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing thinly. This step helps keep the juices locked in. Serve with pita bread, fresh veggies, and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce for that authentic shawarma experience.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Use dark meat: Chicken thighs hold moisture better and absorb spices more deeply than breast meat.
• Marinate longer: For the juiciest results, aim for overnight marination.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches ensures even browning and crisp edges.
• Fresh garlic is key: Use fresh, finely minced garlic for the sauce to achieve that bold, punchy flavor.
• Let the meat rest: Resting sliced chicken lets flavors settle and juices redistribute.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro provide a pop of green and freshness. Don’t forget a sprinkle of sumac or a few pickled vegetables to add tang and contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve your shawarma with classic sides such as tabbouleh, fattoush salad, or simple roasted potatoes. These sides complement the spices without overpowering the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try wrapping your sliced chicken in warm pita for an easy handheld meal, layering it over a grain bowl with fresh veggies, or serving it plated with dollops of garlic sauce for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it easy to reheat for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This cooked chicken freezes well—store portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve moisture and crisp up the edges again, or warm in the oven wrapped in foil to keep it juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended because they stay juicier and absorb the marinade better.

Is the garlic sauce dairy-free?

The traditional version uses yogurt and mayonnaise, but you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives like avocado or tahini-based sauces.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe offers a mild warmth from spices; you can adjust the heat by adding cayenne or chili flakes according to your preference.

Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking in a pan?

Absolutely! Grilling imparts a delicious smoky flavor and crisps the edges beautifully.

What can I use if I don’t have pita bread?

Flatbreads, tortillas, or even serving the shawarma over rice or salad works just as well.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe is one of those dishes that feels both special and completely doable on any night. Once you experience that tender, spiced chicken paired with smooth, garlicky sauce, it’s sure to become a household favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and bring a little Middle Eastern magic to your kitchen today!

Related Posts

• Garlic Butter Pork Chops
• Apple Butter Pork Chops with Creamy Apple Sauce
• Juicy Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Mustard Sauce

Print