Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
This Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a Middle Eastern–Mediterranean classic. Tender chicken is marinated in warm spices, yogurt, and lemon, then grilled or pan-seared to smoky perfection. It’s served with a bold, creamy garlic sauce (toum-style) and fresh vegetables inside pita or over rice — comforting, flavorful, and easy to make at home.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marination: 1–2 hours
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45–60 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma:
500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs preferred for juiciness)
3 tbsp Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp coriander powder
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Garlic Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
2 garlic cloves, minced into paste
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
For Serving:
Pita bread or flatbreads
Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, or pickles
Optional: Red onion, parsley, or shredded cabbage
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all spices.
Add chicken and coat well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Option 1: Grill – Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Option 2: Pan-sear – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned on both sides (about 10–12 minutes total).
Option 3: Bake – Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange chicken on a lined tray and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Once cooked, rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
Taste and adjust — add more lemon for tang or garlic for punch.
Chill until ready to serve.
Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma
Warm pita bread slightly.
Spread a generous layer of garlic sauce.
Add sliced chicken, fresh vegetables, and optional pickles.
Roll or fold into a wrap.
Serve warm with extra sauce or a side of rice and salad.
Notes & Tips
Yogurt in the marinade keeps the chicken tender.
Thighs give juicier results, but breasts work if not overcooked.
Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.
Meal prep: Chicken can be marinated and stored up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What’s a good side dish?
Try Mediterranean rice, roasted potatoes, tabbouleh, or fattoush salad.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use dairy-free yogurt or skip it and increase olive oil and lemon juice slightly.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 2g