Indulge in the delights of dubai: discover the easiest chicken shawarma recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with this authentic chicken shawarma recipe from Dubai. This mouthwatering dish is a symphony of succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a pillowy-soft flatbread.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1 pound)
• 1 tablespoon shawarma spice mix
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped

For the Flatbread:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm water

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breast to the marinade and ensure it is fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season with shawarma spice mix, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing it thinly.

Make the Flatbread:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal balls.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 12 inches in diameter.
6. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the flatbreads for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly puffed up.

Assemble the Shawarma:

1. Spread a layer of hummus or tahini sauce on the flatbread.
2. Top with the sliced chicken, vegetables, and parsley.
3. Roll up the flatbread tightly.
4. Serve immediately with additional sauces, if desired.

The Art of Pita Bread: A Perfect Complement

Complement your chicken shawarma with homemade pita bread. This soft and fluffy bread is the perfect vessel for holding all the delicious fillings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough to release the air.
6. Divide the dough into 8 equal balls.
7. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
8. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
9. Cook the pita bread for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly puffed up.

Seasoning Secrets: Unveiling the Magic of Shawarma Spice Mix

The secret to an authentic chicken shawarma lies in the aromatic shawarma spice mix. This blend of spices adds depth and flavor to the chicken, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine all the spices.
2. Mix well until evenly combined.
3. Store the spice mix in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

The Perfect Sidekick: Sauces to Enhance Your Shawarma

Elevate your chicken shawarma with a variety of tantalizing sauces. From creamy hummus to spicy harissa, these sauces add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.

Hummus:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Harissa:

• 1 pound red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup ground cumin
• 1/4 cup ground coriander
• 1/4 cup ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tips for the Perfect Shawarma

• For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken thinly.
• Grill the chicken over high heat to get a nice char.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing it to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Warm the flatbread before assembling the shawarma.
• Serve the shawarma with your favorite sauces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best way to store chicken shawarma?

A: Chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make chicken shawarma ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables ahead of time. Assemble the shawarma just before serving.

Q: What are some vegetarian alternatives to chicken shawarma?

A: You can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables, tofu, or falafel.