Baked Chicken Shawarma: Juicy Flavor in Every Bite

Chicken Shawarma is a delicious Middle Eastern dish that has taken the world by storm. The unforgettable flavors of this baked version make it a family favorite. With its juicy chicken thighs marinated in aromatic spices, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also gluten-free and dairy-free. Let’s dive into the world of Chicken Shawarma and discover how to bring its vibrant taste to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a weeknight hero for several reasons. First, it’s packed with flavor thanks to a blend of spices like cumin and paprika, making it an authentic Chicken Shawarma. Second, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it as a grilled chicken pita or a spiced chicken wrap. Third, it’s perfect for meal prep, as you can make it ahead and enjoy it all week. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to takeout, with lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking for healthy Chicken Shawarma options or something to satisfy a craving, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma

Gather these items:

• 1 lb Chicken Thighs
• 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
• 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 4 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1 Tbsp Ground Cumin
• 1 Tbsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Turmeric
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Full-Fat)
• 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a ziplock bag, combine the chicken thighs, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a greased baking dish.
3. Step 3: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the greased baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
4. Step 4: In the final 1-2 minutes, switch to broil for a crispy exterior. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
5. Step 5: Once broiled, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips.
6. Step 6: Whisk together minced garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice in a bowl for the garlic sauce.
7. Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve in pita, over rice, or atop a salad.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Shawarma

Keep these in mind:

• This dish is gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Marinating overnight enhances flavor, making it more delicious.
• Adjust spices to your taste for a personalized experience.
• For a more intense flavor, consider using a homemade Chicken Shawarma marinade.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Shawarma

There are countless ways to enjoy Chicken Shawarma. Serve it as a Chicken Gyro in warm pita bread, topped with fresh vegetables and your choice of sauce. You can also create a Marinated Chicken Roll using tortillas, or place it on a bed of rice accompanied by a refreshing salad. These options make for a perfect Middle Eastern Chicken Wrap!

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Shawarma

To store Chicken Shawarma, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. This makes it a fantastic option for Chicken Shawarma meal prep ideas, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shawarma

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Shawarma?

The secret lies in the marination time; allowing the chicken to soak in spices overnight creates tender and flavorful results. This is essential for achieving authentic taste and juicy texture.

Can I make Chicken Shawarma ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and cook it when ready. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep and quick dinners.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Shawarma?

Avoid overcooking the chicken to ensure it remains juicy. Also, watch the broiling process closely to prevent burning while achieving that crispy exterior.

Variations of Chicken Shawarma You Can Try

Want to switch things up? Try making a Grilled Chicken Pita for a smoky flavor or add different spices to create your unique twist. You could also experiment with adding grilled vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition, making it an even healthier option!

For more delicious recipes, check out Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Easy Avocado Toast Recipe for a quick and healthy option.

Baked Chicken Shawarma: Juicy Flavor in Every Bite

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Enjoy homemade Chicken Shawarma with unforgettable flavors and easy preparation.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 95 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Chicken Thighs
• 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
• 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 4 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1 Tbsp Ground Cumin
• 1 Tbsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Turmeric
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Full-Fat)
• 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice

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Instructions

1. In a ziplock bag, combine the chicken thighs, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a greased baking dish.
3. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the greased baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
4. In the final 1-2 minutes, switch to broil for a crispy exterior. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
5. Once broiled, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips.
6. Whisk together minced garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice in a bowl for the garlic sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve in pita, over rice, or atop a salad.

Notes

• This dish is gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Marinating overnight enhances flavor.
• Adjust spices to your taste.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg