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Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Shawarma combines rich spices with tender, grilled chicken for a flavorful experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or family gathering, it's sure to satisfy your cravings for something delicious. Try it tonight!
Prep Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 22 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 3 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 3 teaspoons Garlic, minced

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Start by placing the chicken in a sealable plastic bag. This makes marinating easy and mess-free. Set it aside while you prepare the seasoning.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, dried oregano, and ground cardamom. Add the salt and pepper. Stir well to create the shawarma seasoning.
  3. In another bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Whisk in the seasoning mixture until combined.
  4. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring the marinade coats the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least one hour, but preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
  5. When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious char on the chicken.
  6. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
  7. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
  8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicy and flavorful.
  9. Slice the chicken into strips and serve with your favorite sides like pita bread, fresh vegetables, or rice. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Shawarma!

Notes

  • Tip 1: After cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just seal it in a freezer bag, and it’ll last up to three months.
  • Tip 3: This dish goes great with pickled vegetables, garlic sauce, or tahini dressing, enhancing the Middle Eastern experience.
  • Tip 4: If you don't have a grill, you can also bake or pan-sear the chicken on the stovetop with similar results.
  • Tip 5: Feel free to tweak the spices to your liking. Adding a pinch of cayenne can spice things up!
  • Tip 6: Enjoy your Chicken Shawarma warm, as it brings out the flavors and textures beautifully.