Chicken Shawarma (Easy & Healthy)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
257 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
Middle Eastern
Chicken Shawarma (Easy & Healthy)
Description
This Chicken Shawarma recipe uses a complex blend of spices including smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, allspice, turmeric, and cinnamon combined with olive oil to coat boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The chicken is marinated for several hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
The cooking process first roasts the chicken pieces at a high temperature until just cooked, ensuring they stay moist. Then broiling finishes the dish by crisping and browning the edges. The result is tender, juicy chicken with flavorful caramelized surfaces.
Typically, the sliced chicken is served in pita bread with various toppings or alongside basmati rice and salads. Suggested garnishes include fresh cilantro, pickles, and red onions, and the dish pairs well with garlic hummus or Mediterranean-style salads.
The use of chicken thighs is recommended for tenderness and moisture. If opting for breasts, reduce cooking time to prevent dryness. This recipe can be prepared in advance and the chicken marinated overnight for convenience.
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp cumin ground
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp Turmeric ground
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp black pepper freshly ground
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 TB extra virgin olive oil
For the Chicken:
- 3 lb chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 1 TB extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together all the spices to combine well. Add 2 TB olive oil and mix into a paste. Set aside.
- Thoroughly towel-dry the boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Slice each thigh into quarters, and coat with 1 TB olive oil. Add chicken into the bowl with marinade. Use tongs or clean hands to thoroughly coat all pieces of chicken evenly, on all sides. Cover tightly with cling wrap and chill overnight (at least 3-4 hours.)
- Let chicken come to room temp as you preheat oven to 400F, with rack on upper middle position. Once oven is heated, place chicken pieces in a single layer on a large, foil-lined baking sheet. Take care not to overlap or overcrowd the pieces. Roast 15 min or until just cooked.
- Let chicken cool enough to handle. Slice all chicken into thin slices. Place back onto the baking sheet in an even layer. Broil on high for 7-10 minutes or until edges are nicely browned. Serve immediately with pita bread, basmati rice, or green salad.
Notes
- Chicken thighs remain juicy; adjust cooking time if using chicken breasts to avoid dryness.
- Serve shawarma sliced in pita with toppings, rice bowls, or Mediterranean salads for variety.
- Garnish options include cilantro, pickled vegetables, and red onions to enhance flavor.
- Marinate chicken at least 3-4 hours or overnight for best flavor penetration.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 257 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 257kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 2.2g | 1% |
| Protein | 42.9g | 86% |
| Fat | 7.6g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4g | 7% |
| Cholesterol | 137.9mg | 46% |
| Sodium | 294.3mg | 12% |
| Fiber | 0.8g | 3% |
| Sugar | 0.2g | 0% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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