Name: Super Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 4 tablespoons lemon juice; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; Chopped fresh parsley (optional); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup full fat Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 14 reviews

There is something truly magical about a perfectly spiced and tender chicken shawarma bathed in a luscious, garlicky sauce that sings with every bite. If you’ve been craving that Middle Eastern charm at home, you’re in for a treat with this Super Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s a vibrant, aromatic feast that doesn’t demand hours of effort but rewards you with flavors so rich and comforting they’ll have you coming back for more. Whether tucked inside warm pita bread or plated alongside fresh salad, this chicken shawarma is a versatile star that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear plastic zipper bag filled with marinated meat sits on a white marbled surface. The meat inside is coated with a thick orange-red sauce mixed with various spices and small herb pieces, creating a textured and uneven look on the surface. The bag is slightly wrinkled and has a blue zipper seal at the top. Light reflects softly on the bag, highlighting the glossy, wet appearance of the marinade and the sealed bag. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, relying on a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that together build a beautiful balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a critical role, from the spices that create that signature shawarma warmth to the garlic sauce that adds a creamy zing with every drizzle.

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up all those spices.
4 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty punch that tenderizes the chicken and lifts the flavors.
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps the chicken stay moist while imparting a luscious richness.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the marinade with a deep, savory aroma.
2 teaspoons ground cumin: Essential for that earthy, warm spice character in shawarma.
2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a smoky depth and vibrant color.
1 teaspoon turmeric: Brings a subtle earthiness and golden hue.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Surprising yet delightful, it adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1 teaspoon pepper: A little kick, balancing the whole mix.
Chopped fresh parsley for serving: Freshness and a pop of green for visual appeal and brightness.
For the Garlic Sauce:
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star in the sauce, delivering punchy garlic flavor.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and smooth texture.
1/4 cup full fat Greek yogurt: Provides tanginess and thickens the sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances richness with acidity for a perfectly tangy finish.

How to Make Super Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken with the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a large ziplock bag. Seal it up and give it a gentle massage to evenly coat every piece. Pop this into your fridge for at least an hour—overnight marinating is even better if you have the time! This step is crucial because it allows all those glorious spices to seep into the meat, making every bite bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare to Bake

When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. This ensures your shawarma will develop that inviting golden crust while staying tender inside.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place your marinated chicken thighs into the greased dish in a single layer. Slide them into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. The exact time might vary depending on the thickness of your chicken, so keep an eye on them. In the last couple of minutes, switch your oven setting to broil to give the chicken a beautiful, crispy finish that is pure perfection.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes so the juices can redistribute. Then slice the thighs into strips that are perfect for piling onto pita or scattering over a fresh salad.

Step 5: Whip Up the Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, combine the minced garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This garlicky sauce is the ultimate shawarma companion, bringing a cool, tangy balance to the warm spices.

How to Serve Super Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a pita wrap filled with several layers. The base is a toasted pita bread with brown spots, wrapped halfway with white paper. Inside, there is a layer of green lettuce, topped with pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken, white onion slices, and bright red tomato pieces. Over the filling, there is a drizzle of white sauce. In the background, you can see parts of another similar wrap and some green lettuce on a white marbled surface, along with a white bowl filled with white sauce on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your sliced chicken with a handful of freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds freshness that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. You might also sprinkle a bit of sumac or drizzle some extra lemon juice for a little added zing.

Side Dishes

Chicken shawarma pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with warm pita bread, fluffy basmati rice, or a crisp, vibrant salad with cucumbers and tomatoes. Roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini also complement the dish beautifully, balancing the spices with their natural sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel adventurous? Turn this recipe into a shawarma bowl by layering the sliced chicken over quinoa or couscous, topped with garlic sauce and your favorite fresh veggies. Alternatively, wrap it all up in a flatbread or pita pocket for a convenient, handheld treat that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze both the cooked chicken and garlic sauce separately. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. The garlic sauce freezes best in small portions, like ice cube trays, so you can thaw just what you need.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain its juiciness and crisp edges. Avoid microwaving for a prolonged time as it can dry the meat out. Thaw frozen sauce in the fridge overnight and give it a quick whisk before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking, chicken breasts will work fine—just be careful not to overcook them since they can dry out more easily.

Is the garlic sauce spicy?

No, this garlic sauce is creamy and mildly tangy with a strong garlic flavor, but it’s not spicy. You can add a pinch of cayenne if you want some heat.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At a minimum, marinate for 1 hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, let it marinate overnight in the fridge.

Can I grill this chicken instead of baking?

Yes! Grilling adds a lovely smoky char to the shawarma. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time since grilling can cook the chicken faster.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream or plain yogurt, but full fat Greek yogurt is preferred for thickness and tanginess in the garlic sauce.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Super Easy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe is like inviting a warm, welcoming Mediterranean kitchen right into your home. The rich spices, tender chicken, and creamy garlic sauce come together effortlessly, making it a go-to for any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to customize the sides or garnishes to suit your mood—this dish loves to be as flexible as it is delicious. Once you give it a go, I’m sure it will become a beloved favorite that you’ll return to again and again.