Unlock the secret to juicy, tender chicken shawarma with this simple recipe using chicken breast

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East with our delectable chicken shawarma recipe using succulent chicken breast. This culinary masterpiece combines aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy pita bread to create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice in the kitchen, our step-by-step guide will empower you to recreate this iconic dish in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shawarma Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

• Pita bread
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced cucumbers
• Sliced onions
• Chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Shawarma Sauce:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Cook the chicken strips in batches for 5-7 minutes per batch, or until cooked through and browned on the edges.

4. Assemble the Shawarma:

Warm the pita bread in the oven or microwave. Spread a generous amount of shawarma sauce on the pita bread. Top with the cooked chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley. Roll up the pita bread and serve immediately.

Additional Tips:

• For a more authentic flavor, use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken in a skillet.
• To make the shawarma sauce ahead of time, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serve the shawarma with additional toppings such as pickled turnips, olives, or hummus.

Variations:

• Experiment with different spices in the chicken marinade, such as turmeric, cinnamon, or cardamom.
• Use different vegetables in the shawarma, such as shredded cabbage, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Top the shawarma with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter for extra richness.

The Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma:

Chicken shawarma is a relatively healthy dish, especially when made with lean chicken breast and whole-wheat pita bread. Here are some of the health benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Low in fat: Chicken breast is a lean protein, meaning it is low in fat and calories.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Chicken is a good source of vitamins B3, B6, and B12, as well as minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium.
• Contains antioxidants: Chicken is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

The Cultural Significance of Chicken Shawarma:

Chicken shawarma is a popular street food in the Middle East, where it is often served as a quick and affordable meal. It is typically made with chicken, lamb, or beef, and is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is shaved off the rotisserie and served in pita bread with various toppings. Chicken shawarma is a symbol of Middle Eastern cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. What can I use if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream or plain yogurt as a substitute for Greek yogurt.

2. Can I make the shawarma sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the shawarma sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. What are some other toppings I can add to my shawarma?

Some other toppings you can add to your shawarma include pickled turnips, olives, hummus, or baba ghanoush.

4. Can I use other vegetables in my shawarma?

Yes, you can use other vegetables in your shawarma, such as shredded cabbage, carrots, or bell peppers.

5. How do I reheat leftover shawarma?

You can reheat leftover shawarma in the oven or microwave.