Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is like a warm hug wrapped in spices and topped with a drizzle of silky sauce. Imagine the tender chicken, marinated to perfection, grilled or roasted until juicy, with its flavors dancing on your palate and the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you cook. spicy chicken pasta dish You know that moment when the whole house smells so good that even your neighbor’s cat starts plotting how to sneak into your home? That’s what this dish does!
Picture this: it’s a Friday evening, the week has been long, and the only thing standing between you and relaxation is the thought of dinner. You decide to whip up some Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce because it’s simple yet impressive enough to make you feel like a culinary genius. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings with friends—everyone will be lining up for seconds, and trust me, they’ll be raving about it for days. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- The aromatic spices create a delightful flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors and textures, it’s just as lovely on the plate as it is tasty.
- Versatile enough to be served in wraps, salads, or on its own; it fits any occasion beautifully!
Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal; adjust depending on your crowd size.
- Olive Oil: A splash helps in marinating and adds richness to the chicken.
- Ground Cumin: This spice gives shawarma its distinct earthy flavor; don’t skip it!
- Ground Coriander: Adds a citrusy depth that elevates the dish.
- Paprika: Use sweet paprika for color and mild warmth.
- Fresh Garlic: The more garlic, the better! Fresh cloves deliver robust flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens everything up beautifully.
For the Sauce:
- Sour Cream: This forms the creamy base of your sauce; full-fat works best!
- Mayonnaise: Adds an extra layer of creaminess; trust me on this one.
- Minced Garlic: More garlic! It brings out those wonderful flavors in the sauce.
- Lemon Zest: For an added zing that pairs perfectly with garlic.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by combining olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add your chicken breasts and ensure they are well-coated in this flavorful mixture. Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least one hour longer if you can wait.
Step 2: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
While your chicken marinates away (and while you try not to think about how hungry you are), preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). If using an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once preheated, place your marinated chicken on the grill or baking sheet. Grill each side for about six to seven minutes or bake until cooked through (about twenty-five minutes). The internal temperature should reach a wholesome165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While your chicken is cooking, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning according to taste if you’re feeling fancy, throw in some chopped fresh herbs too!
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once cooked through, remove your chicken from heat and let it rest for five minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. This step ensures all those juices stay locked inside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer sliced chicken onto plates or into wraps alongside fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce trust me; this is where all magic happens!
Now go ahead dig in! You’ve earned yourself this delightful feast after all that hard work (and patience). Enjoy every savory bite of Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce while basking in compliments from anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you! sweet and savory garlic chicken. For more inspiration, check out this irresistible garlic shrimp recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken shawarma with creamy garlic sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then while it relaxes, whip up your creamy garlic sauce. Finally, toast some pita bread or warm up your favorite rice as a delightful base for this aromatic feast.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or even tofu for a plant-based twist. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin, and don’t shy away from adding veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken’s tenderness while warming up the creamy garlic sauce separately.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly marinated chicken, let it sit overnight if possible; this enhances the flavors significantly.
- Always slice against the grain for tender bites and don’t rush the searing process golden-brown edges are key!
Sometimes I whip this up when friends come over, and they can’t believe how easy it is to make something so delicious! Their reactions always remind me why I love cooking.
FAQs :
What is Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a popular Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, then served in pita bread or flatbreads. The creamy garlic sauce, often made from yogurt, garlic, and tahini, adds a rich flavor that complements the savory chicken. For more inspiration, check out this flavorful chicken burrito bowls recipe.
How can I make Chicken Shawarma at home?
To make Chicken Shawarma at home, marinate boneless chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, spices like cumin and paprika, and lemon juice. Grill or bake the chicken until it’s fully cooked. For the creamy garlic sauce, blend yogurt with minced garlic and lemon juice. Serve the chicken in pita bread topped with fresh vegetables and the creamy sauce for a delicious meal.
What should I serve with Chicken Shawarma?
Chicken Shawarma pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it alongside tabbouleh salad, hummus, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also add pickled vegetables for an extra burst of flavor. These accompaniments enhance the dish while providing complementary textures and tastes.
Can I use different meats for Shawarma?
Yes, you can use different meats for Shawarma. While chicken is popular, lamb, beef, or turkey also work well. Each meat brings its unique flavor profile to the dish. Adjust your marinade accordingly to suit the type of meat you choose. This versatility makes Shawarma a favorite among many food lovers.
Conclusion for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce :
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With marinated chicken grilled to perfection and a rich creamy sauce, this recipe satisfies cravings while being easy to prepare at home. creamy garlic butter steak bites Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience that everyone will love!
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious Middle Eastern dish that combines marinated, grilled chicken with a rich, velvety garlic sauce. The aromatic spices create a flavor explosion, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve this dish in wraps, salads, or on its own and watch your guests rave about it!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sauce: 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- 2. Preheat Cooking Surface: Heat grill or oven to medium-high (400°F/200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment if using the oven.
- 3. Cook the Chicken: Grill each side for about 6–7 minutes or bake for approximately 25 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- 4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- 5. Rest and Slice: Let chicken rest for five minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- 6. Serve: Plate sliced chicken with fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes; drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz) with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. - Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for variations. - Serve with pita bread or over rice for a complete meal.
