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A close-up of a chicken shawarma wrap with sliced grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of creamy white sauce, wrapped in a flatbread.

Chicken Shawarma

Tender chicken thighs marinated in warm Middle Eastern spices, baked to perfection, and served in pita pockets with fresh salad and sauces.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 shawarma pitas
Course: Entree, Meat and Poultry
Cuisine: Entree, Meat and Poultry
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ tablespoon ground cumin spice
  • ¾ tablespoon turmeric powder spice
  • ¾ tablespoon ground coriander spice
  • ¾ tablespoon garlic powder spice
  • ¾ tablespoon paprika sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves spice
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (protein)
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced (aromatic)
  • Juice of 1 large lemon acid
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil for marinating
  • 6 pita pockets for serving
  • Tahini sauce or Greek Tzatziki sauce for serving
  • Baby arugula greens
  • 3- ingredient Mediterranean salad for serving
  • Pickles or kalamata olives optional, for serving

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, mix cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, and cloves. Set aside.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry and season lightly with salt. Slice into small bite-sized pieces.
  3. Place chicken in a large bowl and toss with the spice mixture. Add onions, lemon juice, and olive oil, then mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight for more flavor.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
  5. Spread the chicken and onions in a single layer on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes. For a crispier top, briefly broil while watching carefully.
  6. While chicken is roasting, prepare pita pockets, sauces, and Mediterranean salad.
  7. To serve, open pita pockets and spread a little tahini or Tzatziki sauce. Add chicken shawarma, arugula, Mediterranean salad, and optional pickles or olives.
  8. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 ServingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This easy homemade chicken shawarma is full of bold, warm spices and pairs perfectly with fresh pita, Mediterranean salad, and creamy sauces. Marinate ahead for maximum flavor.

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