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Quick Chicken Shawarma Recipe Easy 30-Minute Flavorful Dinner

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A quick and easy homemade chicken shawarma recipe that delivers bold, authentic flavors in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights and flavorful dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into thin strips
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra virgin)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional fresh herbs: chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • Pita bread or flatbreads for serving
  • Garlic sauce or tahini for drizzling
  • Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and pickles for toppings

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
  2. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours for best flavor.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until hot. Add a drizzle of olive oil if the pan is not non-stick.
  4. Cook the marinated chicken strips in a single layer without overcrowding. Let cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes until the bottom is browned, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
  6. Warm pita or flatbreads briefly in the skillet or oven. Assemble shawarma by filling bread with chicken, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, pickles, and drizzle with garlic sauce or tahini. Serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes for best flavor; up to 2 hours is ideal. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Use fresh spices for authentic flavor. For dairy-free, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut or soy yogurt. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken shawarma, quick dinner, easy recipe, Middle Eastern chicken, weeknight meal, flavorful chicken, shawarma marinade

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