Spicy Chicken Shawarma Recipe: Savory, Spicy, and Simply Irresistible! 🌯🔥✨
1. Introduction to Spicy Chicken Shawarma
If you’re craving a mouthwatering dish that excites the taste buds, look no further than this Spicy Chicken Shawarma recipe! Shawarma, a beloved Middle Eastern street food, combines marinated chicken with a symphony of spices, all wrapped in warm pita bread. This delightful dish is not just flavorful but also incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or entertaining guests, these spicy chicken shawarmas are sure to impress! This authentic shawarma recipe will guide you through each step!
2. Ingredients for the Best Spicy Chicken Shawarma
Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Spicy Chicken Shawarma:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Pita bread for serving
- Fresh lettuce, chopped
- Tomato, diced
- Onion, thinly sliced
- Tahini or garlic sauce
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Spicy Chicken Shawarma
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
To kick off your Spicy Chicken Shawarma, combine minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, chili powder, cinnamon, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken thighs and coat well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, and for best results, marinate overnight. Don’t forget to check out our crispy honey butter chicken for another delicious chicken recipe!
Step 2: Grill the Chicken to Perfection
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add marinated chicken thighs, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and beautiful grill marks form. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Consider making honey garlic chicken while you’re at it!
Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Toppings for the Ultimate Shawarma Experience
While the chicken is resting, prepare your fresh toppings. Chop lettuce, dice tomatoes, and thinly slice onions. If you’re using tahini or garlic sauce, have it ready to go as well. This assembly of vibrant vegetables will enhance the flavor and crunch of your shawarma! Looking for something else to prepare? Try our easy beef and broccoli recipe.
Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma for a Delicious Meal
To assemble your spicy chicken shawarma, take a piece of warm pita bread and layer a generous serving of sliced grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced onions. Drizzle tahini or garlic sauce over the top before wrapping it up tightly. Your shawarma is ready to be devoured!
4. Storage Tips for Spicy Chicken Shawarma Leftovers
Leftover spicy chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, consider keeping the ingredients separate and assembling them just before serving. You can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. For a quick snack, consider making our chili roasted chickpeas.
5. Serving Suggestions for Spicy Chicken Shawarma
Spicy Chicken Shawarma is perfect for any meal! Serve with a side of crispy fries, a refreshing salad, or homemade hummus for dipping. Don’t forget to pair with your favorite beverage – it’s great with a cool drink or a light beer! Try pairing it with our creamy garlic chicken for a complete meal!
6. FAQs About Spicy Chicken Shawarma
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Spicy Chicken Shawarma?
A1: Yes, chicken breast is a suitable substitute but may result in a drier texture. Adjust grilling time accordingly.
Q2: Is Shawarma gluten-free?
A2: Traditional shawarma is served in pita bread, which contains gluten. You can make it gluten-free by using lettuce wraps or gluten-free bread.
Q3: How can I make this vegetarian?
A3: Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or falafel for a delicious vegetarian shawarma option! Also, check out our sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta!
7. Final Thoughts on Making Spicy Chicken Shawarma
Experience a burst of flavors with this easy homemade Spicy Chicken Shawarma recipe. Perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also makes for an impressive addition to any meal. Get the family involved and enjoy a fun cooking experience! Or make our creamy pesto chicken delight.
8. More Delicious Recipes to Explore
If you loved this Spicy Chicken Shawarma, check out our other exciting recipes like Beef Kofta, Lamb Kebabs, and Falafel Wraps that are sure to tantalize your taste buds! Make sure to try our chicken and broccoli pasta.
9. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Spicy Chicken Shawarma!
With this Spicy Chicken Shawarma recipe, you’ve got all the tools needed to recreate a street food classic right in your kitchen. Embrace the aromatic spices and juicy chicken wrapped in warm bread, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will rave about! For another great chicken and rice combo, check out our smothered chicken and rice!
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Spicy Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this Spicy Chicken Shawarma recipe, featuring marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Pita bread for serving
- Fresh lettuce, chopped
- Tomato, diced
- Onion, thinly sliced
- Tahini or garlic sauce
Instructions
- Combine minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, chili powder, cinnamon, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken thighs and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice grill marks. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Prepare fresh toppings by chopping lettuce, dicing tomatoes, and slicing onions. Have tahini or garlic sauce ready.
- Assemble the shawarma by layering sliced grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and sauce inside the warm pita bread. Wrap tightly and enjoy!
Notes
- Leftover shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For the freshest taste, keep individual ingredients separate until ready to serve.
- Consider using lettuce wraps for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shawarma
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
