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Chicken Shawarma is more than just a dish; it embodies the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East, delivering a burst of flavor that has captivated food lovers worldwide. Characterized by its tender, spiced chicken, typically cooked on a vertical rotisserie, shawarma is traditionally served in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces. However, the allure of homemade shawarma lies in the ability to customize flavors and ensure freshness, making it a popular choice for home cooks eager to replicate this beloved delicacy in their own kitchens.

Flavorful Grilled Chicken Shawarma

Discover the delicious world of homemade chicken shawarma with this savory spiced grilled recipe. Experience the rich flavors of the Middle East by marinating tender chicken thighs in a blend of yogurt and spices, then grilling to perfection. Serve in warm pita with fresh vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe empowers you to customize flavors while enjoying a fresh, authentic dish right at home.
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Ingredients
  

For the Marinade:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons plain yogurt

Juice of 1 lemon

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground paprika

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Sauce:

½ cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt to taste

For Serving:

Pita bread or flatbreads

Sliced cucumbers

Sliced tomatoes

Chopped red onion

Sliced pickles

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

    - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create a smooth marinade.

      Marinate the Chicken:

        - Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a zip-lock bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4-8 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

          Make the Garlic Sauce:

            - In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well and season with salt to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

              Preheat the Grill:

                - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it on medium-high and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

                  Grill the Chicken:

                    - Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C and juices run clear).

                      Rest and Slice:

                        - Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.

                          Assemble the Shawarma:

                            - Take pita bread or flatbreads and layer with sliced chicken, fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and pickles. Drizzle with garlic sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

                              Serve:

                                - Roll or fold the pita/flatbread and serve immediately with extra garlic sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious, homemade grilled chicken shawarma!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings