From The Middle East To Your Kitchen: How To Make The Ultimate Chicken Shawarma

Craving the mouthwatering flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine? Look no further! Chicken shawarma, a culinary masterpiece of marinated chicken roasted on a vertical spit, is a beloved dish that can be easily recreated in your own kitchen. Follow our comprehensive guide on how to make middle eastern chicken shawarma and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds.

Gathering Essential Ingredients

Before embarking on your shawarma-making journey, gather these essential ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Marinade

The key to flavorful shawarma lies in the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. The yogurt will act as a tenderizer, while the spices will infuse the chicken with an aromatic blend of flavors.

Marinating the Chicken

Submerge the chicken pieces in the prepared marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor development. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

Roasting the Chicken

Once the chicken is well-marinated, it’s time to roast it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken pieces on top. Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Slicing and Assembling the Shawarma

Remove the roasted chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. To assemble the shawarma, warm up your pita bread or tortillas. Spread a generous layer of hummus or tahini sauce on the bread, then top with the sliced chicken, onions, bell peppers, and any other desired toppings such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickles.

Finishing Touches

Drizzle the shawarma with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, fries, or a refreshing salad.

Tips for Perfect Shawarma

• For a crispy exterior, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of roasting.
• If you don’t have a meat thermometer, check the chicken’s doneness by piercing it with a fork. The juices should run clear, not pink.
• Experiment with different spice blends to create unique flavor profiles.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting the chicken. This will prevent it from cooking evenly.
• Let the shawarma rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender dish.

Variations

• Beef Shawarma: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef.
• Lamb Shawarma: Use ground lamb instead of chicken for a richer flavor.
• Vegetable Shawarma: Roast a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, and eggplant, to create a vegetarian alternative.

Questions You May Have

How can I make the shawarma more flavorful?

• Marinate the chicken for longer.
• Use a blend of spices that complements the chicken, such as paprika, oregano, or chili powder.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar to the marinade.

What can I use instead of pita bread?

• Tortillas
• Naan bread
• Flatbread
• Rice

How do I store leftover shawarma?

• Store the shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.