Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Bold Middle Eastern Flavor Made at Home

Introduction

Chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is one of those meals that instantly fills the kitchen with irresistible aroma. It is rich, spiced, juicy, and deeply satisfying, yet surprisingly easy to recreate at home. I started making this recipe when I wanted the bold flavors of my favorite shawarma spot without relying on takeout. After a few tests, I found that a well-balanced marinade and proper cooking technique make all the difference. The result is tender chicken with crispy edges and layers of warm spices in every bite.

What truly completes this dish is the garlic sauce. Creamy, sharp, and silky smooth, it cuts through the richness of the chicken beautifully. Together, the spiced chicken and garlic sauce create a meal that feels comforting and exciting at the same time. Whether served in flatbread, over rice, or alongside fresh vegetables, this chicken shawarma recipe is dependable, versatile, and incredibly flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers authentic shawarma flavor using simple ingredients and straightforward steps. It is juicy, well-seasoned, and pairs perfectly with a creamy garlic sauce that elevates the entire dish.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless skinless chicken thighs
Chicken thighs stay juicy and absorb marinades exceptionally well, making them ideal for shawarma.

Olive oil
Olive oil helps distribute the spices evenly and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.

Garlic
Garlic adds bold, aromatic depth to both the marinade and the sauce.

Lemon juice
Lemon juice tenderizes the chicken and balances the warm spices with brightness.

Ground cumin
Cumin provides earthiness and forms the backbone of shawarma seasoning.

Ground paprika
Paprika adds warmth, color, and mild smokiness.

Ground turmeric
Turmeric contributes subtle bitterness and a golden hue.

Ground cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and complexity without making the dish sweet.

Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and ensures the chicken is well-seasoned throughout.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and balance.

Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt forms the base of the garlic sauce and creates a creamy texture.

Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise adds richness and smoothness to the garlic sauce.

Vegetable oil
Vegetable oil helps emulsify the garlic sauce and achieve its signature silky finish.

Directions

Begin by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and mix until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken in batches, allowing it to sear until deeply golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest briefly, then slice thinly against the grain.

To make the garlic sauce, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and vegetable oil. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve the sliced chicken warm with garlic sauce drizzled generously over the top or on the side for dipping.

Equipment Needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, marinating time is at least 1 hour, and cooking takes approximately 20 minutes. Total time is around 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or oven. The garlic sauce should be served chilled or at room temperature.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken shawarma is highly adaptable. You can bake the marinated chicken in the oven for convenience or grill it for added smokiness. Add chili powder or cayenne for heat. Serve it in pita bread, wraps, or bowls with rice, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. For a dairy-free sauce, use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise alternatives. These options allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences while keeping its signature flavor.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein and rich in healthy fats from olive oil and yogurt. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for low-carb diets when served without bread.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Marinate longer if possible
Longer marinating time results in deeper flavor.

Use high heat
A hot pan creates crisp edges and prevents steaming.

Rest before slicing
This keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.

Is shawarma supposed to be spicy?

It is warmly spiced, not typically hot.

Can I bake the chicken?

Yes, bake until fully cooked and lightly caramelized.

What does garlic sauce taste like?

It is creamy, garlicky, and slightly tangy.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling.

What should I serve with shawarma?

Flatbread, rice, salad, or roasted vegetables work well.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, freeze before cooking for up to two months.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the spices are aromatic rather than spicy.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, onions and peppers cook well with the chicken.

How do I keep chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and let it rest before slicing.

Conclusion

Chicken shawarma with garlic sauce is a bold, comforting dish that brings authentic flavor straight to your kitchen. With juicy, spice-marinated chicken and a creamy garlic sauce that ties everything together, this recipe is both satisfying and versatile. Whether served for a family dinner or prepared for guests, it is a reliable, flavorful meal that never fails to impress.

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