From street food to oven: master the art of homemade chicken shawarma

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with this delectable chicken shawarma recipe in oven. Crafted with succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and a tangy marinade, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of a traditional shawarma joint.

Ingredients for a Perfect Chicken Shawarma

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thinly
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken slices, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the chicken is well coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Roasting the Chicken to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3. Spread the marinated chicken slices evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden brown.
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and set aside.

Creating the Flavorful Sauce

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, cilantro, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Assembling Your Homemade Shawarma

1. Warm up some pita bread or tortillas in the oven or on a griddle.
2. Spread a generous layer of the flavorful sauce on the warmed pita bread or tortillas.
3. Top with the roasted chicken slices, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and any other desired toppings such as onions, lettuce, or pickles.
4. Roll up the pita bread or tortillas tightly and enjoy!

Additional Toppings and Sides

• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced cucumbers
• Diced onions
• Shredded lettuce
• Pickled vegetables
• Hummus
• Baba ghanoush
• Tabbouleh

Tips for an Exceptional Shawarma

• For a more authentic flavor, use a blend of chicken breasts and thighs.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.
• Let the chicken marinate for as long as possible to enhance the flavors.
• Serve the shawarma immediately for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different toppings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

The Perfect Ending: Finishing Touches

1. Drizzle some extra sauce over the assembled shawarma for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a vibrant touch.
3. Serve with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad to complete your meal.

Basics You Wanted To Know

• Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
• Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or turkey. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• How can I make the shawarma more spicy?
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the marinade for a subtle kick.

• What are some alternative toppings for the shawarma?
• Try adding feta cheese, olives, or grilled bell peppers for a Mediterranean twist.

• Can I freeze the leftover shawarma?
• Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Reheat them before serving.

• How do I store the shawarma?
• Store the assembled shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.