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Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Never underestimate the power of bold spices and juicy grilled chicken—discover the secret to authentic Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma that will transform dinner.
Why You’ll Love this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma
Although it might seem like just another grilled chicken dish, this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma has a way of sneaking up on your taste buds with its bold spices and juicy tenderness.
The first bite? It’s like a flavor party—cumin, coriander, and a hint of cardamom doing a little dance together.
And that juicy texture? It’s no dry chicken disaster. You get this perfect balance where the meat stays tender but has that nice char from the grill.
Plus, the layers of flavor build as you eat, making you wonder why regular grilled chicken ever seemed exciting.
Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that turns “meh” dinners into something you actually look forward to.
Who knew grilled chicken could be so sneaky and satisfying?
What Ingredients are in Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma?
Alright, let’s talk ingredients—because this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma isn’t just any old grilled chicken. It’s a symphony of spices, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce that comes together to make your taste buds sit up and pay attention.
Think of it as a flavor-packed lineup that’s bold, bright, and totally worth the little bit of prep. Grab these essentials, and you’re well on your way to shawarma greatness.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Montreal grill seasoning (or your favorite grill mix)
- Juice of 1 lemon, divided
- 2 large garlic cloves, grated or finely chopped
- 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 to 8 ounces each)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt
- 4 pita bread rounds
Now, a little heads-up about the ingredients: the star here is definitely the spice blend. Don’t be shy with those warm, aromatic spices—they’re what give shawarma its signature punch.
If you’re missing Montreal grill seasoning, no biggie; just use your favorite savory grill spices or a pinch of smoked salt. Fresh garlic and lemon juice bring brightness and depth, balancing the spices beautifully.
Oh, and don’t underestimate the combo of tahini and Greek yogurt—it’s the sauce that ties everything together with creamy, tangy goodness. Finally, those peppers and onions add a sweet crunch, and the pita? Well, that’s your edible vehicle for all the deliciousness.
Simple, but magic happens when these ingredients meet.
How to Make this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma that’s packed with flavor and pretty straightforward to whip up. First, you want to get your spice mix ready. In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon each of ground coriander, cumin, cardamom, chili powder, and grill seasoning (Montreal brand is recommended here), along with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Then add the juice of half a lemon, 2 large grated garlic cloves, and about 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Stir it all together until you get this thick, paste-like magic—you’re basically creating a flavor bomb for your chicken. Slather this mixture all over 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, making sure they’re well-coated. Don’t be shy here; the more you cover, the better that flavor gets in there.
Next up, fire up your grill to high heat—whether it’s indoors or out, either works fine. Place your chicken on the grill, and let it cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through. You’ll want to give the chicken a little rest after grilling so all those juicy flavors settle nicely.
While that’s happening, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in 1 large sliced onion and 1 each of red and yellow bell peppers, sliced, too. Season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring frequently for around 5 minutes, just until the veggies start to soften and wilt.
Meanwhile, whip up the sauce by mixing 1/4 cup tahini, 1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt, the juice of the remaining half lemon, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s creamy, tangy, and downright irresistible.
Almost there—warm your pita breads on the grill for about a minute per side so they get that perfect little char. To assemble your shawarma, layer the thinly sliced chicken on each pita, pile on the sautéed peppers and onions, and don’t be shy with a generous dollop of that yogurt-tahini sauce.
Using a premium indoor grill can enhance your cooking experience by providing consistent heat and indoor convenience.
It’s the kind of meal that’s cozy, fresh, and totally satisfying. Plus, it looks impressive enough to fool your friends into thinking you’re some kind of culinary wizard. So, ready to get grilling?
Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma Substitutions and Variations
When you’re craving shawarma but don’t have all the exact ingredients or want to shake things up a bit, substitutions and variations come to the rescue.
Instead of chicken breasts, try thighs for juicier, more forgiving meat—less chance of drying out.
No Montreal grill seasoning? No worries. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon for a similar vibe.
If you’re not into yogurt, swap it with sour cream or even a dollop of mayo mixed with tahini.
Veggies can switch too; zucchini or mushrooms play nicely with those spices.
And for those who dodge gluten, lettuce wraps make a fresh, crunchy alternative to pita.
It’s all about tweaking until it feels right.
Why stick to the rules when flavor’s the real goal?
What to Serve with Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma
A handful of perfect side dishes can turn your Middle Eastern chicken shawarma into a full-on feast, making every bite sing with flavor and texture.
Think fresh, crunchy cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil—simple but invigorating. Hummus is a no-brainer; creamy, garlicky, and perfect for dipping warm pita.
Don’t forget crispy fries or roasted potatoes sprinkled with sumac for a tangy twist. For something green, a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or mint adds brightness.
And if you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of garlic sauce or a dollop of spicy harissa can kick things up a notch.
These sides don’t just fill plates; they bring balance, color, and that wow factor to your meal every time.
Final Thoughts
Even though chicken shawarma might sound fancy, it’s really just a few simple steps that come together to create something pretty unforgettable.
The magic’s in the spice mix—a blend that wakes up your senses without turning your kitchen into a smokehouse. Grilling the chicken just right, letting it rest, then slicing thin keeps every bite juicy and tender.
Don’t skip those colorful peppers and onions; they add a sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. And that yogurt-tahini sauce? It’s like the cherry on top, creamy with a zesty kick that ties everything together.
Honestly, this recipe proves that you don’t need to be a pro chef to make something deliciously impressive. Ready to give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you.
