Syrian Chicken Shawarma
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the enticing allure of Syrian Chicken Shawarma. This Middle Eastern classic is a symphony of flavors that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Damascus. The juicy, marinated chicken is perfectly spiced, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this Syrian Chicken Shawarma will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Syrian Chicken Shawarma recipe is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. With its aromatic spices, creamy garlic sauce, and the crunch of pickled cucumbers, every bite is a delightful adventure. It’s easy to prepare, and the ingredients are simple yet flavorful. Plus, you can customize it to your liking—add extra veggies, swap sauces, or make it spicier. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table!
Your Shopping Guide
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a detailed shopping list:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice from half a lemon
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon red bell pepper paste (or tomato paste)
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix
- A few tablespoons of water (to help blend)
- 1/3 cup chickpeas water (aquafaba)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A few tablespoons olive oil
- Pickled cucumber slices
- French fries
Equipment Breakdown
To make this Syrian Chicken Shawarma, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken.
- Blender or food processor: To make the garlic sauce.
- Skillet or grill: For cooking the chicken.
- Serving platter: To present your delicious shawarma.
Syrian Chicken Shawarma Made Stepwise
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, yogurt, red bell pepper paste, and shawarma spice mix. Stir until well blended. Add your chicken, ensuring it is fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and drizzle a few tablespoons of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
While the chicken cooks, make the garlic sauce. In a blender, combine 4 cloves of garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and aquafaba. Blend until smooth, adding a few tablespoons of water if needed for consistency. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma
To assemble your Syrian Chicken Shawarma, place the sliced chicken on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with garlic sauce. Top with slices of pickled cucumber and serve alongside crispy French fries for that extra crunch.
Customize for Your Needs
This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are some ways to personalize your shawarma:
- Swap chicken for beef or lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Add your favorite vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, or onions.
- Make it spicy by adding chili paste or sliced jalapeños.
- Use a whole wheat pita or flatbread for a healthier twist.
Flavor Logic
The magic of Syrian Chicken Shawarma lies in its complex flavors. The shawarma spice mix typically includes a blend of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, which enhances the savory notes of the chicken. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the meat while adding a creamy richness. The garlic sauce provides a zesty kick that balances the spices, while the pickled cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. Together, these elements create a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and exciting.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Do not freeze the garlic sauce, as it may change in texture.
Your Top Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating to allow for even flavor absorption.
What can I serve with shawarma?
Shawarma pairs wonderfully with pita bread, rice, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with hummus or tahini for added flavor.
How do I make the shawarma spice mix at home?
You can easily make your own mix by combining equal parts cumin, paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and a pinch of allspice. Adjust to your taste!
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with marinated tofu or jackfruit for a delicious vegetarian shawarma.
Weekend Projects
If you’re feeling inspired, here are some delicious recipes to try this weekend:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for amazing baked treats.
- Pinch of Yum for delightful weeknight dinners.
- Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes.
Make It Tonight
With its rich flavors and simple preparation, Syrian Chicken Shawarma is the perfect dish to whip up tonight. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s not just food, but an experience to savor.
There’s something truly special about sharing a meal that has so much culture and flavor packed into each bite. So, get cooking, and enjoy the wonderful world of Syrian Chicken Shawarma!
Syrian Chicken Shawarma
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, yogurt, red bell pepper paste, and shawarma spice mix. Stir until well blended. Add your chicken, ensuring it is fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and drizzle a few tablespoons of olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- While the chicken cooks, make the garlic sauce. In a blender, combine 4 cloves of garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and aquafaba. Blend until smooth, adding a few tablespoons of water if needed for consistency. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- To assemble your Syrian Chicken Shawarma, place the sliced chicken on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with garlic sauce. Top with slices of pickled cucumber and serve alongside crispy French fries for that extra crunch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Add your favorite veggies for a personalized touch.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
