Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma is a fast, flavorful meal featuring juicy spiced chicken, a cool lemon-dill yogurt sauce, and fresh veggies all wrapped in soft pita bread. With bold Middle Eastern spices and a creamy tangy sauce, this dish is a satisfying option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken shawarma recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It’s easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and can be customized to your liking with different toppings and sauces.

• Quick and easy 30-minute meal

• Packed with warm spices and fresh ingredients

• Cool yogurt sauce balances the bold flavors

• Great for meal prep or on-the-go lunches

• Naturally gluten-free adaptable with GF pita

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons oil

To serve:

• 4 pita bread rounds (use gluten-free if needed)

• Shredded lettuce

• Sliced tomatoes

• Sliced red onion

Yogurt Sauce:

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon fresh minced dill

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, onion powder, and cinnamon. Toss until well coated.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Set aside to rest.

3. Make the Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. Slice the Chicken: After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips.

5. Assemble the Pitas: Warm the pita rounds, then fill with sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and a generous drizzle of yogurt sauce.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 4 pitas

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken breasts: Boneless chicken breasts can be substituted, though thighs offer juicier results.

• Add pickles: Middle Eastern pickles or sliced cucumbers add crunch and acidity.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken seasoning.

• Try other sauces: Swap the yogurt sauce for hummus or tahini sauce for a different flavor.

• Low-carb option: Serve the chicken and toppings in lettuce wraps or over salad instead of pita.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Yogurt sauce: Store separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

• Pitas: Best served fresh, but can be warmed in a skillet or oven if needed.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for up to 24 hours for more flavor.

What’s the best type of yogurt to use?

Plain Greek yogurt is ideal for thickness and tang. Use full-fat for a richer sauce.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Can I use store-bought shawarma seasoning?

Yes, you can substitute 1–2 tablespoons of store-bought shawarma spice blend if preferred.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s flavorful but mild. Add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze cooked and sliced chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What’s a good side dish with chicken shawarma?

Serve with rice pilaf, tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or a cucumber salad.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the sauce and ensure pita is also dairy-free.

Are chicken thighs better than breasts for shawarma?

Chicken thighs are more tender and juicy, but breasts work well too if cooked carefully.

How do I keep pita from breaking?

Warm the pita before assembling to make it more pliable, or wrap in foil to help hold everything together.

Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that delivers bold spice and cool creaminess all in one bite. With its easy prep and endless serving options, it’s the kind of go-to recipe you’ll keep in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re wrapping it up for lunch or plating it for dinner, this dish is sure to please every time.