Unleash the flavor burst: chicken shawarma recipe bbq with a twist

Embark on a culinary adventure with our tantalizing chicken shawarma recipe BBQ, where succulent chicken marinated in aromatic spices meets the smoky embrace of a sizzling grill. This Middle Eastern delicacy, a symphony of flavors and textures, will transport your taste buds to a realm of culinary bliss.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shawarma:

• 6-8 large pita breads
• 1 head of lettuce, shredded
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Tahini sauce (optional)

Instructions: A Culinary Symphony

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, white vinegar, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Grilling the Chicken

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
• Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Step 3: Assembling the Shawarma

• Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a microwave.
• Spread a thin layer of tahini sauce on the pita bread (optional).
• Layer the shredded lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and onion on the pita bread.
• Remove the chicken from the skewers and thinly slice it.
• Arrange the sliced chicken over the vegetables.
• Roll up the pita bread and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Shawarma:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Grill the chicken over medium-high heat to get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry and tough.
• Serve the shawarma immediately with your favorite toppings.

Variations: A Canvas for Creativity

• Chicken Shawarma with Hummus: Add a dollop of creamy hummus to the shawarma for a rich and tangy flavor.
• Chicken Shawarma with Pickled Vegetables: Pickle onions, cucumbers, or carrots to add a crunchy and tangy element.
• Chicken Shawarma with Grilled Halloumi: Grill slices of halloumi cheese and add them to the shawarma for a salty and savory twist.
• Chicken Shawarma with Mango Chutney: Spread a layer of sweet and spicy mango chutney on the pita bread for a burst of flavor.

The Art of Pairing: A Culinary Matchmaker

• Wine Pairing: Serve the chicken shawarma with a light and refreshing white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Beer Pairing: Pair the shawarma with a crisp and hoppy beer, such as an IPA or pale ale.
• Non-Alcoholic Pairing: Enjoy the shawarma with a glass of fresh lemonade or iced tea.

Beyond the Grill: Indoor Cooking Options

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Stovetop Method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

A Feast for the Senses: The Joyful Aftermath

Indulge in the delectable flavors of the chicken shawarma recipe BBQ, where succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables harmonize in a culinary masterpiece. Each bite tantalizes the taste buds, leaving you craving more.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may become drier during grilling. To prevent this, marinate the breasts for a longer period and grill them for a shorter amount of time.

Q: How long can I store the marinated chicken?
A: The marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is best to grill the chicken within 24 hours of marinating.

Q: What is a good substitute for tahini sauce?
A: If you don’t have tahini sauce, you can use a mixture of Greek yogurt and lemon juice as a substitute.