Craving shawarma? here’s the foolproof recipe for perfect homemade goodness

Are you craving the tantalizing flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine but don’t want to venture out to your favorite shawarma joint? With this comprehensive guide, we’ll embark on a culinary adventure and show you how to make chicken shawarma at home step by step. Get ready to savor the juicy, flavorful, and aromatic shawarma that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of the Middle East.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon shawarma spice mix
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon shawarma spice mix
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shawarma Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon shawarma spice mix
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Pita Bread:

• 1 package (12 ounces) pita bread

For the Toppings (optional):

• Tahini sauce
• Hummus
• Pickled onions
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Lettuce

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the marinade.
• Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

2. Prepare the Shawarma Seasoning:

• In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the shawarma seasoning.

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
• Season the chicken with the shawarma seasoning.
• Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

4. Slice the Chicken:

• Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Slice the chicken into thin strips.

5. Warm the Pita Bread:

• Heat the pita bread in a toaster or microwave until warm and slightly crispy.

6. Assemble the Shawarma:

• Open the pita bread and spread a thin layer of tahini sauce or hummus.
• Add a generous portion of the sliced chicken.
• Top with your desired toppings, such as pickled onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.

7. Enjoy Your Homemade Shawarma:

• Fold the pita bread in half or roll it up and savor the delicious flavors of your homemade chicken shawarma.

Tips for the Best Shawarma:

• Use a good quality shawarma spice mix to enhance the flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Cook the chicken over high heat to achieve a slightly charred exterior.
• Slice the chicken as thinly as possible for a tender and flavorful shawarma.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to create your perfect shawarma.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use other types of meat for shawarma?

A: Yes, you can use lamb, beef, or turkey instead of chicken.

Q: How can I make the shawarma more spicy?

A: Add more shawarma spice mix or red pepper flakes to the marinade or seasoning.

Q: Can I make shawarma in the oven?

A: Yes, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: How long can I store homemade shawarma?

A: Store the shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze shawarma?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before assembling the shawarma.