Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt

This Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt recipe is bursting with Middle Eastern flavors! The creamy yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with warm spices, garlic, and lemon. Cooked on a grill, stovetop, or in the oven, this shawarma is perfect for wraps, rice bowls, or salads.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Marinate Time: 2-12 hours

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp ground turmeric

½ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For Cooking:

1 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying)

For Serving (Optional):

Warm pita bread or flatbreads

Hummus or garlic sauce

Tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce

Red onion slices

Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce

Instructions:

 Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, and spices.

Add the chicken thighs and mix well, ensuring they are fully coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight for maximum flavor).

 Cook the Chicken

Option 1: Stovetop Cooking

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 75°C).

Option 2: Oven Method

 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Place marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Option 3: Grilling Method

 Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until lightly charred.

 Slice & Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Serve in pita wraps, rice bowls, or salads with toppings of your choice.

Tips & Tricks:

Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.

Longer Margination = Better Flavor – Marinate overnight for the best taste and tenderness.

Make It a Meal – Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or tzatziki sauce.

Make It Ahead – Cooked chicken keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: ~320

Protein: 30g

Carbohydrates: 5g

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: ~450mg

This Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt Marinade is easy, delicious, and perfect for meal prep!