Name: Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (buy cutlets to skip a step); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon zested and juiced; 3 tablespoons fat free chicken stock; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons cumin; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ground pepper (to taste); 2/3 cup nonfat, plain Greek yogurt; 2 cloves garlic (grated); 1 teaspoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3-4 tablespoons almond milk or skim milk (adjust for consistency); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; pita; tomatoes; cucumber; parsley; iceberg lettuce

Introduction to Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Why Chicken Shawarma is the Ultimate Weeknight Meal

When it comes to frantic weeknights, Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is a lifesaver. This dish captures the exotic flavors of Lebanese cuisine and combines them with the convenience of a speedy dinner. Perfect for busy professionals, the marinade takes just minutes to whip up, and you can even prep it ahead of time. With a vibrant mix of spices including cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander, this chicken dish will tantalize your taste buds without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

Not only is it quick, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a filling wrap, a light salad, or served with warm pita and garlic sauce, the options are endless. Plus, hands-on cooking is minimal, allowing you to enjoy the simplicity of this scrumptious dish.

Did you know that grilling chicken boosts its flavor while keeping it juicy? With just a 15-minute cooking time, you’ll be dining on juicy, spiced chicken in no time! As you cook, the tantalizing aroma will fill your home, making it ideal for a cozy night in or impressing guests. Ready to dive into this easy, flavorful recipe?

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Chicken Marinade Ingredients

Creating a delicious Chicken Shawarma starts with a flavorful marinade. For this, you will need:

2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast (chicken cutlets save time!)
2 tablespoons olive oil for richness
1 lemon, zested and juiced to brighten the dish
3 tablespoons fat-free chicken stock for depth
3 garlic cloves, minced for that aromatic punch
2 teaspoons cumin for warmth
2 teaspoons smoked paprika to add a subtle smokiness
2 teaspoons ground coriander for a hint of citrus
¼ teaspoon cinnamon for a surprisingly pleasant twist
1 teaspoon kosher salt and ground pepper to taste

Garlic Sauce Ingredients

The creamy garlic sauce is what ties everything together! You'll need:

⅔ cup nonfat, plain Greek yogurt for a nice tang
2 garlic cloves, grated for a strong garlic flavor
1 teaspoon olive oil to smooth it out
2 tablespoons lemon juice for acidity
3-4 tablespoons almond or skim milk to reach your desired consistency
½ teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper

Optional Serving Ingredients

Serve your Chicken Shawarma with these tasty additions for a complete meal:

Pita for holding all the goodness
Fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor
Cucumber for crunch and freshness
Parsley for added color and herbiness
Iceberg lettuce for a refreshing crunch

By gathering these ingredients, you're well on your way to delighting your taste buds with this savory Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce! Want additional tips? Check out this guide on Middle Eastern spices for more flavor inspiration!

Preparing Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

When it comes to Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, the key to a delicious meal lies in the preparation steps. Follow these easy guidelines to create a dish that’s flavorful and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

Prepare the Chicken for Marination

Start by getting your chicken ready for marination! For best results, use 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast. You can either cut them in half lengthwise or purchase pre-cut chicken cutlets to save some time. In a large bowl, combine the following marinade ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons fat-free chicken stock
3 minced garlic cloves
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ground coriander
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Ground pepper to taste

Mix it well until everything is combined, then add the chicken, ensuring it’s completely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion.

Make the Flavorful Garlic Sauce

While your chicken marinates, whip up the creamy garlic sauce that complements the shawarma perfectly. In a small bowl, combine:

⅔ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
2 grated garlic cloves
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3-4 tablespoons almond milk or skim milk
½ teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper

Stir until you achieve a smooth consistency. Feel free to adjust the milk quantity to get the thickness you prefer. Refrigerate the sauce for at least an hour; it only gets better with time, and you can store leftovers for up to 5 days.

Marinate the Chicken

Once the chicken has soaked up the marinade, it’s time to take it out of the refrigerator. Discard any leftover marinade and pat dry the chicken with paper towels. This step helps develop a nice sear when cooking.

Cook the Chicken

Cooking methods can vary based on your preference:

Grill or Skillet: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you achieve a lovely golden brown. Rest it, covered with tin foil, for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute.
Air Fryer: Preheat to 370°F. Cook the chicken cutlets for 5 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Let it rest as mentioned above.

Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Patience pays off! After cooking, it's crucial to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices and ensures each bite is as moist and flavorful as possible. Serve your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce with some pita, tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley for a beautiful and delicious presentation!

For alternatives and more chicken recipes, feel free to explore this link for additional inspirations. Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Spicy Chicken Shawarma

If you're looking to amp up the flavor profile of your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, try adding a spicy kick! Incorporate chili powder or cayenne pepper into your marinade for that extra heat. You can also experiment with chili flakes or a dash of harissa paste in your garlic sauce for a fiery twist that brings a new dimension to the dish.

Vegetarian Shawarma Alternatives

Craving the aromatic flavors of Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce but want a meat-free option? Consider using marinated cauliflower or eggplant as your protein substitute. The marinade's bold spices infuse these veggies with delightful flavors. Alternatively, chickpeas can also be seasoned and roasted to create a hearty vegetarian shawarma bowl that satisfies and delights. Explore more plant-based sauces to complement your dish!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Shawarma

Importance of Marination Time

When preparing Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce, marination is key to infusing flavor. Aim for at least two hours, but if you have the time, marinate for up to 24 hours. This will allow the spices to penetrate the chicken, resulting in tender, juicy meat rich in flavor. Think of marinating as a simple way to elevate your dish without much extra effort.

How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry—this helps it sear beautifully. Whether you choose to grill, skillet-cook, or air fry, cooking the chicken over medium-high heat for the right time is crucial. For grill or skillet methods, aim for 3-4 minutes per side. If using an air fryer, check for a crisp exterior and juicy center; it usually takes about 9-10 minutes total. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F can help prevent any guesswork.

For more helpful tips on cooking chicken, check out Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Build Your Own Shawarma Plate

Creating a Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce plate is a fun and interactive way to enjoy this dish! Start with a base of warm pita bread or rice, then pile on your grilled chicken, fresh vegetables like sliced cucumbers and tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of the garlic sauce. Don't forget to sprinkle some parsley on top for that vibrant finishing touch! Consider serving your plate with olives and pickles for extra flavor.

Enjoying Shawarma Integrations in Salads

If you’re looking to lighten things up, try incorporating the chicken into a salad. Mix your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce with greens like spinach or romaine, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. The garlic sauce acts as a delicious dressing, making every bite refreshing and satisfying. Add a sprinkle of feta for a tasty Mediterranean twist! This is an excellent way to enjoy the flavors while keeping it vibrant and nutritious.

For more inspiration, check out this delicious salad idea that pairs perfectly with chicken dishes!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Preparation Time

The magic begins with a 2-hour preparation time. This includes marinating the chicken to allow those rich, bold flavors to infuse every bite. Feel free to marinate overnight for even deeper flavor penetration!

Cooking Time

Once marinated, you'll only need 15 minutes of cooking time. Whether you choose the grill, skillet, or air fryer, your chicken will quickly develop that perfect, charred finish.

Total Time

In just 15 minutes total of cooking, you’ll have a delicious Middle Eastern feast ready to mingle with fresh pita and your favorite veggies. Ready to dig in? Enjoy the process!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Calories

Indulging in Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce provides approximately 277 calories per serving, making it a delightful choice for a quick weeknight meal without feeling guilty. This dish is packed with flavor while keeping the calorie count in check.

Protein and Fat Content

You'll get a solid 40 grams of protein in each serving, perfect for fueling your busy lifestyle. The dish also contains about 7 grams of fat, primarily from healthy sources like olive oil and Greek yogurt. This balance of nutrients ensures you're enjoying a meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.

For more detailed nutritional insights, consider checking out this source for USDA data on common ingredients.

FAQs about Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Absolutely! While this Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe shines with chicken, you can easily substitute it with other meats like turkey, beef, or even lamb. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different meats have varying cooking requirements. Remember, the marinade works wonderfully with anything you choose!

How do I store leftover Chicken Shawarma?

To keep your delicious Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3 days. If you want to save the chicken for a longer period, consider freezing it in portions. Reheat in the oven for best results, or use a microwave for a quick warm-up.

What sides pair well with Chicken Shawarma?

Pair your Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce with crispy pita bread, fresh tabbouleh salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Hummus or dairy-free tzatziki also complement the flavors beautifully, making each bite an explosion of taste! For great side dish ideas, check out this hummus recipe.

Conclusion on Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

In summary, Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, this dish simplifies cooking without compromising on taste. Dive into this delicious recipe today and enjoy a taste of the Middle East!