Oven-baked chicken shawarma: a no-grill, no-mess treat
What To Know
- Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- To reheat the pita bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and warm it in the oven for a few minutes.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with our easy chicken shawarma recipe, made effortlessly in the comfort of your own oven. This delectable dish, featuring succulent chicken marinated in a symphony of spices, will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Beirut. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of creating this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients for the Chicken Marinade
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredients for the Tahini Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Ingredients for the Pita Bread
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions for the Chicken Marinade
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast, spices, and olive oil.
2. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
Instructions for the Tahini Sauce
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
2. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Instructions for the Pita Bread
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap.
5. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
6. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
7. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
8. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
9. Cook the pita bread for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
Cooking the Chicken
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the marinated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Assembling the Shawarma
1. Spread some tahini sauce on a pita bread.
2. Top with sliced chicken, vegetables of your choice (such as tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers), and any other desired toppings.
3. Roll up the pita bread and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Shawarma
- For a more flavorful chicken, marinate it for longer.
- If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with hummus.
- To make the pita bread ahead of time, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To reheat the pita bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and warm it in the oven for a few minutes.
Variations
- Use different types of meat, such as lamb or beef, for a different flavor profile.
- Add other spices to the marinade, such as paprika, chili powder, or oregano.
- Top your shawarma with your favorite sauces, such as garlic sauce, harissa, or tzatziki.
- Serve the shawarma with a side of fries or rice.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking it.
Q: How long can I store the chicken marinade?
A: You can store the chicken marinade in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Q: Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the tahini sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some good vegetables to top my shawarma with?
A: Some good vegetable toppings for shawarma include tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, lettuce, and pickles.
Q: Can I use store-bought pita bread for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pita bread. However, if you have the time, making your own pita bread is much more flavorful.
