Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made by marinating chicken in an array of spices and then cooking it through the grilling process or on a vertical rotisserie. Luckily, in this recipe, you don’t need a vertical turning rotisserie or a fire. However, you will need a grill pan or a normal fry pan.

Typically, thin slices of roasted chicken will be shaved off and served on Arabic flatbread or pita breads with fresh vegetables, tahini, Garlic yogurt sauce, hummus and pickles. This delightful dish is popular throughout the Middle East, Iran and Turkey.

The word Shawarma is derived from the Turkish word “çevirme,” which basically means to turn or rotate on a vertical turning rotisserie. During the 19th century, the Turkish began to season meat and stack it in layers on the rotating rotisseries.

And as a result, the doner kebab came to life. With people moving to the city, it was not always feasible to have an open fire in the city or in restaurants.

What do you need to make Chicken Shawarma?

Coriander powder, Cumin powder, Paprika powder, Kashmiri chili powder, Cajun spice, Salt and White Pepper, Garlic cloves, Olive oil and Lemon Juice, Chicken leg quarters or chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, Arabic wrap or a pita bread.

Chicken Shawarma uses a blend of Coriander powder, Cumin powder, Paprika powder, Kashrimi chili powder, Cajun Spice, White pepper and salt. Fresh garlic cloves are crushed and infused into the dish which provide it with a savory aroma. Olive and lemon juice add a tangy burst of acidity. In terms of protein options, choose chicken leg quarters, boneless and skinless chicken thighs also work in this recipe. To complete the experience, choose Arabic bread or pita bread which will create a satisfyingly delicious meal.

Pro Tip: “Take your Shawarma to the Next Level”

All over the Middle East, Shawarmas are made using an array of condiments and vegetables. It is also popular to add french fries and it really does make all the difference. Trust us when we say that with this recipe, your Shawarma game will be on par with the Shawarma champions in the Middle East, Turkey and Iran. This Chicken Shawarma works in combination of the following recipes:

You can substitute Kashmiri Chili powder with Cayenne pepper and Cajun Spice with Barbecue seasoning.

• Garlic Yogurt Sauce
• Fried Chips Seasonings
• Red Cabbage & Carrot Slaw

Instructions

Chicken: Place the washed chicken in a bowl. Make sure to pat it dry. Add olive oil. Add the spices such as Cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika powder, Kashmiri chili powder, Cajun spice, salt and white pepper. Add the minced garlic. The chicken will have a vibrant red and brown color.

Cover cling-wrap and let it marinate with the spices. This step is important and makes all the difference, especially if you want a flavorful Chicken Shawarma.

Grill the chicken: Add the chicken to a fry pan or grill pan. Set the temperature to medium high and cook for 8 to 9 minutes per side. Slice the chicken or add it whole to the wrap.

Arrange the Shawarma: Start by adding the Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Fried Chips, Red Cabbage Slaw and the grilled chicken. Fold the wrap tightly and eat.

The Evolution of the Chicken Shawarma

Nowadays, chicken shawarma is enjoyed throughout the world. Whilst the rotisserie technique is still common in restaurants and shawarma shops, many home cooks use grilled chicken or roast chicken as a convenient alternative. There are a number of ways to enjoy shawarma, the modern day version has extended to sharwarma plates and bowls.

Shawarma plates comprises of rice, salad, hummus and grilled vegetables with Arabic bread on the side. This can be easier to eat for some people. Shawarma Bowls are a healthy alternative to the usual Shawarma that are served in restaurants. It incorporates farro, couscous, barley and quinoa.

What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma?

Apart from the recommended necessities such as Yogurt Garlic sauce, French fries (try our french fry seasoning) and Red cabbage & carrot slaw. You can serve Chicken Shawarma with Smokey Paprika hummus, Marinated Olives, Sumac Onions, Tabbouleh.

How to Store Chicken Shawarma?

Store the grilled chicken in an airtight container. Do not incorporate the vinaigrette onto the Red Cabbage & Carrot Slaw. Keep the Garlic Yogurt sauce in its own container. French fries can be fried on the day or reheated on a fry pan. Everything should last two to three days in the fridge.