Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce – Flavorful, Juicy, and Irresistible

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish bursting with flavor. Tender, spiced chicken is marinated to perfection and served with a rich, garlicky sauce that elevates every bite. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or a fun homemade take on your favorite street food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings the authentic flavors of shawarma right to your kitchen. The chicken is juicy and flavorful from a marinade of warm spices, garlic, and lemon, while the creamy garlic sauce adds richness and balance. It’s versatile—you can serve it in wraps, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad. The recipe is easy to prepare, customizable to taste, and guaranteed to satisfy your craving for bold, aromatic flavors.

Nutritional Info

High in protein from chicken.
Moderate fat content from olive oil and creamy sauce.
Can be served with vegetables or whole grains for a balanced meal.

Time Taken

Total time: 50–60 minutes

Prep: 15–20 minutes
Marinate: 20–30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor)
Cook: 10–15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional)
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1–2 teaspoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat

Instructions

In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients and coat chicken thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Bake for 15–20 minutes or cook in a skillet 6–8 minutes per side until chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the creamy garlic sauce by whisking together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Slice cooked chicken into thin strips.
Serve chicken with garlic sauce in pita wraps, over rice, with salad, or as a plate with vegetables and hummus.

You Must Know

Marinating the chicken is key to infusing deep flavor and keeping it juicy. Use boneless thighs for more tenderness and moisture. Adjust garlic in the sauce according to your preference—more garlic adds punch, less keeps it mild.

Storage Tips

Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw before serving and drizzle with fresh sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or sour cream in the garlic sauce.
Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, though thighs stay juicier.
Add smoked paprika or sumac for more authentic Middle Eastern flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm pita bread or flatbreads for wraps.
Pair with rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Top with fresh parsley, pickled onions, or cucumbers for freshness.

Seasonal Adaptations

Summer: Grill the chicken outdoors for added smoky flavor.
Winter: Serve over warm roasted root vegetables or with a spiced rice pilaf.
Year-round: Include a side of tabbouleh or fattoush salad for freshness.

Success Stories

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a favorite for home cooks recreating restaurant-style flavors. Families and friends love its tender, juicy chicken paired with rich, garlicky sauce. Many report it becomes a staple in weekly meal rotation due to its ease and flavor.

Pro Tips

Pat chicken dry before cooking for better browning.
Use a sharp knife to slice chicken thinly for easy wraps.
Mix spices fresh for a more aromatic and vibrant flavor.

Chef’s Special Tips

Add a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of sumac on the finished dish for authenticity.
Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Serve garlic sauce on the side to allow guests to customize each bite.

Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a bold, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings the magic of Middle Eastern cuisine to your home. Juicy, spiced chicken paired with a luscious garlic sauce is irresistible in wraps, rice bowls, or on a plate. Try this recipe today and elevate your dinner with a taste of authentic shawarma!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, marinate chicken overnight and cook just before serving. Sauce can also be prepared in advance.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, though thighs stay juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cooking time for breasts.

Can this be made spicy?
Absolutely—add extra chili powder, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade or sauce.

How long can I store leftovers?
Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving and pair with freshly made sauce.

What can I serve with shawarma?
Pita wraps, rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, hummus, or pickled vegetables work perfectly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if served with rice or gluten-free wraps. Check store-bought pita for gluten content.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, grilling adds smoky flavor and works wonderfully for an outdoor version.