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Authentic Chicken Shawarma

Authentic Chicken Shawarma: Juicy, Crispy, and Easy to Make

Experience a flavor-packed, versatile dish with Authentic Chicken Shawarma that features juicy chicken with crispy edges, perfect for any weeknight meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs/Breasts
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Substitute with grapeseed or canola oil if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Plain or Greek Yogurt Dairy-free yogurts can work well too.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Always choose fresh for the best taste.
  • 1 medium Sliced Onion Omit if seeking a milder taste.
For the Spice Mix
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for bolder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can elevate the flavor further.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cardamom Optional for those preferring a subtler flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your palate.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to your palate.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • skillet
  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, yogurt, fresh lemon juice, sliced onion, garlic powder, paprika, ground cardamom, salt, pepper, ground coriander, and ginger until fully combined.
  2. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on the sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes.
  4. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 12–15 minutes.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the basket, air fry for 10–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  6. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Serve stuffed in warm pita with fresh toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 540mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, marinate chicken for at least 2 hours, up to 24 hours. Allows the juices to redistribute before slicing for moist chicken.

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