Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe: Easy Homemade Weeknight Favorite

There’s nothing quite like the bold, savory punch of chicken shawarma, especially when it’s slathered in a creamy garlic sauce. And guess what? You don’t need a spit or fancy rotisserie. This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe brings all that flavor to your kitchen in just 90 minutes. Whether you’re working with boneless skinless chicken or prefer marinated chicken thighs, this is the kind of meal that turns any weeknight into a feast.

I still remember the first time I had shawarma from a street cart—it was wrapped in warm pita, bursting with juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and that garlicky magic sauce. Recreating that at home? Easier than you’d think.

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma and Garlic Sauce

Chicken Shawarma Marinade Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), sliced
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 2 tsp ground cumin
  
• 1 tsp each of paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  
• Salt and black pepper to taste
  

Substitutions:

• Vegetarian option: use mushrooms or tofu
  
• Swap olive oil with Greek yogurt for a tangier marinade
  

Garlic Sauce for Shawarma

• 1 cup mayonnaise
  
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
  
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  
• Salt to taste
  

Substitutions:

• Greek yogurt or silken tofu instead of mayo for a lighter sauce
  

Chicken Shawarma Recipe Timing Breakdown

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
  
• Total Time: 60 minutes
  

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shawarma-Style Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk together your chicken shawarma marinade: spices, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss in the chicken—whether you’re going with marinated chicken thighs or chicken breast shawarma—and let it soak up the flavor for at least 30 minutes (overnight is even better).

Chef Tip: Marination is key. It tenderizes and infuses deep flavor. Skip it and you’ll miss that rotisserie-style magic.

Step 2: Preheat Grill or Pan for Juicy Grilled Chicken

You want it hot. Medium-high heat. Whether it’s the grill, stovetop skillet, or oven.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Perfectly

Grill or pan-fry your chicken 5–7 minutes per side. Internal temp should hit 165°F. You’ll get that juicy grilled chicken with those irresistible browned bits.

Don’t overcrowd the pan. It’ll steam, not sear.

For oven roasted chicken shawarma: Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4: Make Creamy Garlic Sauce

Mix mayo, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Taste and tweak. Want it thinner? Add a splash of water.

Too garlicky? Let it sit for 10 minutes. Garlic mellows.

Step 5: Assemble Your Shawarma

Let the chicken rest (this keeps it juicy), then slice it up. Serve in warm pita or on a plate with garlic sauce, salad, and extras like pickles or hummus.

This is the chicken I want to eat.

Healthy Chicken Shawarma Alternatives

• Use skinless chicken breast to cut fat
  
• Sub mayo with Greek yogurt for the garlic sauce
  
• Add grilled zucchini, onions, or bell peppers for extra nutrients
  

Chicken Shawarma Serving Suggestions

• Wrap in whole-wheat pita for fiber boost
  
• Pair with tabbouleh or couscous
  
• Garnish with parsley or mint
  
• Add pickled red onions or turnips for tang and crunch
  

Common Mistakes in Shawarma-Style Chicken Recipe

• Skipping the marinade—no shortcuts here
  
• Overcooking—dry chicken ruins the show
  
• Overloading on garlic sauce—it’s rich, a little goes a long way
  

Storing and Reheating Chicken Shawarma Leftovers

• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days
  
• Marinate chicken ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours
  
• Reheat in a pan for best texture; serve with fresh sauce
  

FAQ: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe

More and Related Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe Ideas

• Chili Lime Chicken Tacos
  
• Fiesta Lime Chicken
  
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
  
• Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
  
• Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
  
• Cowboy Butter Chicken
  

Conclusion: The Best Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce Recipe at Home

This shawarma-style chicken recipe is all about flavor, flexibility, and fast results. You can grill it, roast it, or sear it. You can wrap it up or plate it up. Either way, it’s bold, juicy, and dinner-worthy any night of the week.

Want more ideas like this? Follow my Pinterest page for daily dinner inspiration!

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