Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Middle East right into your kitchen. This recipe is designed to be both juicy and flavorful, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of spices and marinade allows the chicken to soak in all the deliciousness, ensuring every bite is savory and satisfying. Are you ready to impress your family with this easy-to-follow recipe?
Why You’ll Love This Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it combines the rich, authentic flavors of shawarma with the convenience of cooking in the oven or on the grill. You will enjoy the best spices for shawarma chicken, which include cumin, paprika, and garlic powder, giving it a robust profile. Furthermore, this dish is gluten-free and can cater to different dietary preferences. Not to mention, it’s a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have healthy options ready throughout the week. Plus, the oven-baked shawarma chicken is not only easy to make but also makes for a stunning presentation when served. Lastly, the marinade is simple yet incredibly effective, allowing the chicken to become irresistibly tender and flavorful.
Ingredients for Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill
Gather these items:
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (Substitute with coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
- 0.25 cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil works as an alternative)
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin (Crucial for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Use regular paprika for milder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (Optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can substitute with fresh minced garlic)
- Salt to taste
- Ground Black Pepper to taste (Substitute with white pepper for milder spice)
- 1 Juice Lemon (Lime juice is a suitable alternative)
- 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (Key for juicy chicken)
- 4 pieces Pita Bread (Warm for best texture)
- 1 cup Fresh Veggies (Crisp options like cucumber and tomato)
- 0.5 cup Tahini Sauce (Enhances overall flavor)
How to Make Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinade ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Step 2: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or grill to medium-high heat, lightly oiling the grates.
- Step 4: Arrange the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet or grill, cooking for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Step 5: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with pita, veggies, and sauces.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill
Keep these in mind:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- For an even juicier result, consider marinating overnight.
- Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- If you’re grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Serve with tahini sauce and fresh veggies to balance the rich flavors.
Best Ways to Serve Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill
There are several delicious ways to enjoy your shawarma chicken:
- Serve it wrapped in warm pita bread with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a classic experience.
- Plate it with fresh salads or grains like couscous or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables to complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
How to Store and Reheat Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill
To store your homemade shawarma chicken in the oven, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the chicken juicy. This dish also works great for meal prep, so consider making a double batch for quick lunches!
Frequently Asked Questions About Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill
What’s the secret to perfect Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill?
The key is in the marinade! Using Greek yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with fantastic flavor. This Middle Eastern chicken shawarma recipe is all about the spices, so don’t skimp on the cumin and paprika.
Can I make Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and simply grill or bake it when you’re ready to eat. This makes it a perfect option for quick shawarma chicken dinner ideas.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill?
To avoid dryness, ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check if it’s done. Also, let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
Creative Variations of Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill You Can Try
If you want to mix it up, consider these variations:
- Substitute chicken thighs with beef or lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Try adding different spices like turmeric for a unique twist.
- Use a variety of fresh veggies for a rainbow of color and flavor.
- Make it a salad by serving the chicken over mixed greens with a tangy dressing.
For more information on the health benefits of spices like cumin and paprika, check out this study on spices.
For a delicious side, consider making Mediterranean Chickpea Salad to complement your meal.
Lastly, if you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit our recipe section for more options.
PrintIrresistibly Juicy Shawarma Chicken Oven Grill Recipe
This Shawarma Chicken recipe is juicy and flavorful, perfect for oven or grill cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Oven or Grill
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (Substitute with coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
- 0.25 cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil works as an alternative)
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin (Crucial for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Use regular paprika for milder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (Optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can substitute with fresh minced garlic)
- Salt to taste
- Ground Black Pepper to taste (Substitute with white pepper for milder spice)
- 1 Juice Lemon (Lime juice is a suitable alternative)
- 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (Key for juicy chicken)
- 4 pieces Pita Bread (Warm for best texture)
- 1 cup Fresh Veggies (Crisp options like cucumber and tomato)
- 0.5 cup Tahini Sauce (Enhances overall flavor)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinade ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or grill to medium-high heat, lightly oiling the grates.
- Arrange the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet or grill, cooking for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with pita, veggies, and sauces.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
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