Fast and flavorful: ultimate chicken shawarma recipe for effortless weeknight meals

Chicken shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with aromatic spices and a flavorful tahini sauce. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic, this chicken shawarma recipe quick will guide you through the steps to create a delectable meal in no time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

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

For the Tahini Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shawarma:

• 1 large pita bread or 2 small pita breads
• 1 cup chopped lettuce
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.

3. Make the Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the consistency with more water or lemon juice as needed, until you reach a smooth, pourable sauce.

4. Assemble the Shawarma: Warm the pita bread in a toaster oven or on a hot skillet. Spread a generous layer of tahini sauce on the pita. Top with the sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and parsley.

5. Roll or Wrap: Fold the pita bread over the fillings, or wrap it in parchment paper or aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for a Quick and Easy Shawarma

• Use a pre-made marinade: If you’re short on time, you can use a pre-made shawarma marinade from the grocery store.
• Grill the chicken in advance: If you have time, grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time when you’re ready to assemble the shawarma.
• Use store-bought tahini sauce: To make the process even quicker, use store-bought tahini sauce.
• Prepare the vegetables ahead of time: Chop the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and parsley in advance to save time when you’re assembling the shawarma.

Variations on the Chicken Shawarma Recipe Quick

• Try different types of meat: You can use beef, lamb, or turkey instead of chicken.
• Add additional vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your shawarma, such as cucumbers, pickles, or bell peppers.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa to the marinade or tahini sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve with different sauces: In addition to tahini sauce, you can serve your shawarma with hummus, tzatziki, or garlic sauce.

Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma

• Lean protein: Chicken is a lean protein that provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• Vegetables: The vegetables in the shawarma provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Tahini: Tahini is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and calcium.

A Culinary Journey: Exploring the Origins of Shawarma

Shawarma is believed to have originated in Turkey in the 19th century. It is thought to have evolved from a dish called “döner kebab,” which was made with lamb or beef cooked on a vertical rotating spit. Over time, shawarma spread throughout the Middle East and became a popular street food in many countries.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, or up to overnight. The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.

Q: Can I make the shawarma ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the shawarma ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.