Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp coriander; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular or vegan); Additional garlic (to taste); Zest of 1 lemon

Published: November 11, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many you’re feeding; they soak up flavors beautifully.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch; opt for firm bulbs for maximum flavor.
Spices: A delightful mix including cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric will give your chicken that authentic shawarma taste.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to marinate the chicken; it enhances flavor and tenderness.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade and adds zing to your dish.

For the Sauce:

Mayonnaise: Regular or vegan mayo works wonders in creating a creamy base for your garlic sauce.
Additional Garlic: For garlic lovers, don’t hold back! The more garlic in your sauce, the better!
Lemon Zest: Adds an extra citrus kick to balance out the richness of mayonnaise.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce:

Step 1: Marinate Your Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic cloves, and all those wonderful spices in a large bowl. Toss in your chicken breasts and let them bathe in this flavorful mixture for at least one hour—longer if you can manage it!

Step 2: Prepare Your Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot so those chicken breasts get those gorgeous sear marks we all love. If you’re using an oven instead, crank it up to 400°F (200°C).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from its marinade (but don’t throw that away just yet!) and place it on the grill. Cook each side for about six to eight minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer if you’re feeling fancy; internal temperature should reach about 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Make That Garlic Sauce

While your chicken is grilling away happily, mix together mayo, minced garlic (yes more!), lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Give it a taste—if you can handle more garlic love here’s where you add more!

Step 5: Slice It Up

Once cooked through and resting for about five minutes (patience pays off), slice your chicken into strips that are perfect for wrapping or plating up!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Now comes time for assembly! Spread some of that luscious garlic sauce on toasted pita bread or over rice; add sliced veggies like cucumbers or tomatoes—and don’t forget additional sauce on top because who doesn’t love extra sauce? Transfer to plates and drizzle with more sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And voilà! Your homemade Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is ready to be devoured! Enjoy each bite as if you’re sitting right there at that bustling street vendor stand in the heart of Beirut!

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Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to allow those flavors to penetrate deeply. Sear the chicken first for a golden crust, then let it finish cooking in the oven while you whip up that luscious garlic sauce.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to experiment! Swap out spices like cumin for smoked paprika or add extra veggies such as bell peppers and onions to the mix for a delightful crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

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The first time I made Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce for my friends, they were speechless—until they dove in! That moment when everyone reached for seconds was priceless.

FAQs

What is Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a popular Middle Eastern dish made of marinated chicken that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices, giving it a rich flavor. It’s typically served in pita bread or flatbreads and topped with fresh vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce that enhances its taste. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for meals or gatherings.

How do you make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home?

To make Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce at home, start by marinating chicken thighs in a mixture of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice for several hours. After marinating, grill or bake the chicken until it’s fully cooked. For the garlic sauce, blend garlic cloves, egg yolks, lemon juice, and oil until smooth. Slice the cooked chicken thinly, serve it in pita bread with your favorite veggies, and drizzle generously with garlic sauce for an authentic experience.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Chicken Shawarma?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs for Chicken Shawarma if you prefer leaner meat. However, keep in mind that chicken thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. If using chicken breast, be sure not to overcook it to prevent dryness. Proper marination can help maintain moisture and enhance the overall taste of your dish.

What sides pair well with Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce?

There are many sides that pair well with Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce. Some popular options include tabbouleh salad, hummus, and roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside rice pilaf or fries for a heartier meal. Fresh salads like fattoush add a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the garlic sauce. These sides complement the flavors of the shawarma beautifully.

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a delicious dish that brings together tender marinated chicken and flavorful garlic sauce. Making it at home is easy and allows for customization based on personal taste preferences. Remember to experiment with different side dishes to elevate your meal further. Enjoy this delightful Middle Eastern recipe as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a festive gathering!

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