Transform ordinary to extraordinary: chicken shawarma with creamy greek yogurt sauce

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with our delectable chicken shawarma recipe! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy Greek yogurt, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a culinary enthusiast seeking new adventures, this recipe will guide you through every step to create an authentic and unforgettable chicken shawarma experience.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shawarma:

• 1 large pita bread
• 1/2 cup hummus
• 1/4 cup tahini sauce
• 1/4 cup pickled onions
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts or thighs with the olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

2. Create the Marinade

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Marinate the Chicken

• Pour the marinade over the chicken and stir to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.

4. Grill or Pan-Fry the Chicken

• Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
• Grill or pan-fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

5. Slice the Chicken

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill or skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Slice the chicken into thin strips.

6. Assemble the Shawarma

• Spread the hummus evenly over the pita bread.
• Top with the sliced chicken, tahini sauce, pickled onions, parsley, and cilantro.
• Roll up the pita bread tightly and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For a more flavorful shawarma, marinate the chicken overnight.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can also pan-fry the chicken.
• Serve the shawarma with your favorite sides, such as rice, fries, or salad.

Variations:

• Add vegetables to your shawarma, such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
• Use different types of bread, such as tortillas or naan.
• Experiment with different sauces, such as garlic sauce or spicy harissa.

Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma with Greek Yogurt

This chicken shawarma recipe not only tastes delicious but also offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Rich in Calcium: Greek yogurt is a good source of calcium, important for bone health.
• Contains Probiotics: Greek yogurt contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health.
• Low in Fat: This recipe uses lean chicken and Greek yogurt, making it a relatively low-fat dish.

Perfect for Gatherings

Chicken shawarma with Greek yogurt is a versatile dish that’s perfect for gatherings with friends and family. It’s easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your guests.

Alternatives to Greek Yogurt

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with other dairy products:

• Sour Cream: Sour cream has a similar tangy flavor to Greek yogurt and can be used as a direct substitute.
• Plain Yogurt: Plain yogurt is a good alternative to Greek yogurt, but it may be thinner, so you may need to strain it to achieve a thicker consistency.
• Labneh: Labneh is a strained yogurt that has a thick, creamy texture. It’s a great substitute for Greek yogurt in this recipe.

Takeaways: Embark on a Culinary Adventure with Chicken Shawarma with Greek Yogurt

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones with this delectable chicken shawarma recipe with Greek yogurt. Every bite promises a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply seeking a satisfying meal, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and may have a more intense flavor.

Q: How can I make my shawarma spicier?
A: Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade or serve with a spicy sauce.

Q: What are some other vegetables I can add to my shawarma?
A: Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots are all great additions to a chicken shawarma.