Mouthwatering chicken shawarma recipe: get ready for a flavor explosion with lillie eats and tells

Embark on a culinary adventure with Lillie Eats and Tells, where we unravel the secrets of the tantalizing chicken shawarma. This delectable dish, originating from the Middle East, has captivated taste buds worldwide with its aromatic flavors and tender, succulent chicken. Follow our step-by-step recipe and learn the art of crafting this gastronomic masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon shawarma seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shawarma Platter:

• 1 large pita bread
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumbers
• 1/4 cup chopped red onions
• 1/4 cup hummus
• 1/4 cup tahini sauce
• Optional: pickles, olives, or pickled turnips

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the marinade ingredients.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and stir to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
4. Sear the chicken breasts on all sides until golden brown.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Carving and Serving

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the chicken against the grain.
3. To assemble the shawarma platter, spread the hummus and tahini sauce on the pita bread.
4. Top with the sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
5. Add any additional toppings, such as pickles, olives, or pickled turnips, as desired.
6. Roll up the pita bread and enjoy this tantalizing dish!

Tips for Perfect Shawarma

• Choose high-quality chicken: The quality of the chicken will greatly impact the flavor of your shawarma.
• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible: The marinade will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
• Sear the chicken before roasting: This step will create a flavorful crust and prevent the chicken from drying out.
• Slice the chicken thinly against the grain: This will make it easier to eat and will enhance the texture.
• Use fresh vegetables: The freshness of the vegetables will add vibrancy and crunch to your shawarma.
• Experiment with different toppings: There are many variations of shawarma, so feel free to add your own favorite toppings.

Variations

• Beef Shawarma: Substitute beef strips for the chicken breasts.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: Use grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, instead of chicken.
• Sweet Potato Shawarma: Roast sweet potato cubes and add them to your shawarma for a touch of sweetness.
• Falafel Shawarma: Replace the chicken with falafel balls for a plant-based option.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I make the shawarma ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What can I serve with shawarma?

A: Shawarma can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, fries, hummus, or baba ghanoush.

Q: How can I make the shawarma more flavorful?

A: Experiment with different marinades and toppings. You can also add a drizzle of lemon juice or tahini sauce to enhance the flavor.