Unlock the secret to authentic middle eastern flavor: our chicken shawarma with garlic sauce recipe!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with our mouthwatering chicken shawarma recipe. This culinary delight, featuring succulent chicken marinated in a symphony of spices and grilled to perfection, is elevated to new heights with our irresistible garlic sauce.

Ingredients for the Chicken Shawarma:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon shawarma spice mix
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Ingredients for the Garlic Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken Shawarma:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken breasts, shawarma spice mix, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a large bowl. Stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
2. Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Slice the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and slice it into thin strips.

Crafting the Irresistible Garlic Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as desired. You can add more garlic, lemon juice, or herbs to suit your preferences.

Assembling the Chicken Shawarma:

1. Warm the Pita Bread: Warm the pita bread in a toaster or oven until slightly crispy.
2. Spread the Garlic Sauce: Spread a generous amount of the garlic sauce on the pita bread.
3. Add the Chicken: Top the garlic sauce with the sliced chicken shawarma.
4. Add Toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, or parsley.
5. Wrap and Enjoy: Wrap the pita bread tightly and enjoy your delectable chicken shawarma with garlic sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Shawarma:

• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful shawarma.
• Grill the Chicken to Perfection: Grill the chicken over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Use Authentic Spices: Use a high-quality shawarma spice mix to achieve the authentic Middle Eastern flavor.
• Make the Garlic Sauce Fresh: The garlic sauce is best when made fresh. Avoid using store-bought sauces for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to create your unique shawarma experience.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
• Different Bread: Use naan bread, flatbread, or tortillas instead of pita bread.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of shawarma spice mix to your liking for a spicier or milder flavor.
• Additional Sauces: Serve the shawarma with additional sauces, such as tahini sauce or hummus, for extra flavor.

Shawarma: A Culinary Journey

Chicken shawarma is a culinary masterpiece that has captivated taste buds worldwide. Its origins can be traced back to the Middle East, where it is a beloved street food. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and creamy garlic sauce creates an unforgettable culinary experience.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I make the chicken shawarma ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and grill it the next day. The garlic sauce can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated.

Q: What is a good substitute for shawarma spice mix?
A: If you don’t have shawarma spice mix, you can use a combination of cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon.

Q: Can I use a different type of yogurt for the garlic sauce?
A: Yes, you can use regular plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt is preferred for its thicker consistency.