Craving that perfect middle eastern flavor? try this yoghurt-marinated chicken shawarma recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with this delectable chicken shawarma recipe yoghurt. This dish combines juicy chicken, fragrant spices, and a creamy yoghurt sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create restaurant-quality shawarma at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 500g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Yoghurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yoghurt
• 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shawarma:

• 4 large pita breads
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Make the Yoghurt Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the yoghurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Grill or Pan-fry the Chicken

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a pan, add a drizzle of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess. Grill or pan-fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.

Step 5: Assemble the Shawarma

Lay out a pita bread and spread a generous layer of yoghurt sauce. Top with the shredded lettuce, red onion, tomatoes, and parsley. Arrange the sliced chicken on top.

Step 6: Fold and Enjoy

Fold the pita bread in half and enjoy your delicious chicken shawarma with yoghurt.

Tips for Perfect Shawarma

• For a more tender chicken, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• To enhance the flavor of the yoghurt sauce, add a pinch of dried mint or oregano.
• Serve the shawarma with a side of hummus or baba ghanoush for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Variations

• Greek Shawarma: Add sliced feta cheese, olives, and fresh oregano to the shawarma.
• Spicy Shawarma: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or harissa paste into the chicken marinade.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.

Conclusion

With this comprehensive guide, you can now savor the irresistible flavors of chicken shawarma with yoghurt in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe will impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply shred the chicken and skip the grilling step.

Q2: What can I substitute for yoghurt in the sauce?
A2: You can substitute yoghurt with sour cream or Greek yoghurt. However, yoghurt provides a tangy and refreshing flavor that complements the chicken shawarma perfectly.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to overnight. The yoghurt sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the shawarma just before serving.