Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep an eye on them—they tend to dry out faster. Thighs are juicier and more traditional for shawarma.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep the chicken and veggies separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave and assemble fresh when ready to eat.

Is Chicken Shawarma spicy?

Not at all! It’s full of warm, aromatic spices, but no heat. If you want spice, add a dash of cayenne or a spicy yogurt sauce.

Can I make this in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes or until fully cooked and lightly browned.

Chicken Shawarma Recipe: 5-Star Family Favorite

Description

This Easy Chicken Shawarma Recipe is your shortcut to bold, juicy flavor! With tender grilled chicken thighs, warm spices, and fresh toppings, this Middle Eastern-inspired dish comes together quickly for a family-friendly meal that tastes like it came from your favorite food truck.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tsp ground coriander
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground paprika
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
2 Tbsp lemon juice

For Serving:

1 mini cucumber, sliced or cubed
2 small tomatoes, cubed
1 head romaine, thinly sliced
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
Pita bread
Tzatziki sauce (optional but recommended)

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Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, coriander, cumin, paprika, salt, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and lemon juice.
In a large bowl, add chicken thighs and sliced onion. Pour in the marinade and mix until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
While the chicken is grilling, slice the cucumber, tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion.
Warm pita bread and make or prepare tzatziki sauce.
Assemble your shawarma wraps: place chicken in pita, top with veggies and tzatziki. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

No grill? Use a stovetop skillet or bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes.
Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but breasts can be substituted.
Great for meal prep—store chicken and toppings separately.
Add a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick!

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Lunch
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 580 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg