Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern–inspired dish made with juicy marinated chicken and a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. This homemade chicken shawarma recipe is easy to prepare and delivers bold spices with restaurant-quality results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, well-seasoned chicken every time
• Creamy garlic sauce that complements perfectly
• Grill, skillet, or air fryer friendly
• Great for meal prep and family dinners
• Naturally halal-friendly and high in protein

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cutlets recommended)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 3 tablespoons fat-free chicken stock
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Ground black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Sauce

• ⅔ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3–4 tablespoons almond milk or skim milk
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional for Serving

• Pita bread
• Tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Parsley
• Iceberg lettuce

Instructions

1. Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise if not using cutlets.
2. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest and juice, chicken stock, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
4. In a small bowl, combine all garlic sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust milk for desired consistency. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, discard marinade, and pat chicken dry.
6. Grill or Skillet: Cook over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
7. Air Fryer: Cook at 370°F for 5 minutes, flip, then cook another 4–5 minutes.
8. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve chicken shawarma with garlic sauce in pita or bowls with desired toppings.

Tips & Tricks

• Longer marinating time means deeper flavor
• Pat chicken dry before cooking for better browning
• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness if preferred
• Garlic sauce thickens as it chills

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 2–24 hours
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating)
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grill, Skillet, or Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern–Inspired
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, high protein

Notes

• Almond milk keeps the sauce light and dairy-balanced
• Serve over rice, salad, or wraps
• Sauce keeps well for meal prep

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 9g

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, thighs are more forgiving and extra juicy.

Is this authentic shawarma?
It’s a home-style version inspired by traditional flavors.

Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.

How long does garlic sauce last?
Up to 5 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free yogurt and almond milk.

Storage

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or air fryer. Store garlic sauce separately for best texture.

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Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is an easy, flavorful recipe that brings bold Middle Eastern spices straight to your kitchen. Perfect for wraps, bowls, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.