This quick chicken shawarma recipe is sure to become a new family favorite! Packed with flavor, this easy stovetop chicken recipe comes together in less than 20 minutes once it is done marinating.
Chicken shawarma is prepared on a vertical, rotating spit over open flames, so you may be surprised to see how easy it is to prepare this version at home using just a regular skillet on your stovetop.
Tip: Double or triple this recipe and prepare several freezers bags with the chicken and marinade at once. Then, place each bag in freezer flat side down until ready to use. Simply pull a bag out the night before you plan to make it. (The chicken will marinade while it defrosts).
Be Sure to Give this Quick Chicken Shawarma Recipe a Try!
(If you like it – be sure to check out our signature Family Favorites Menu Plans for more delicious and easy recipes your family will love!)
Prep time: 10 minutes + time to marinade
Cook time: 16-18 minutes
Serves 4-6
Marinade Ingredients:
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ t. ground coriander
1 t. ground cumin
½ t. allspice
¼ t. turmeric
½ t. ground cinnamon
¼ t. cayenne pepper
1½ t. smoked paprika
2 T. fresh lemon juice
3 T. extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
6 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
Greek Yogurt Dressing:
1 c. Greek yogurt
1 clove garlic, grated
2 t. ground cumin
1 t. dried dill weed
1 T. fresh lemon juice
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
To serve:
Lettuce
Tomato slices
Cucumber slices
Whole wheat or regular pita bread
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine garlic, spices, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and whisk to combine.
- Place chicken thighs in a large, sealable plastic bag and pour marinade mixture on top. Seal the bag and gently turn to thoroughly coat chicken. Place in the refrigerator for several hours to overnight.
- To prepare the yogurt sauce, combine all ingredients in a glass or other non-reactive bowl and stir to combine. Cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from bag and discard remaining marinade. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and brown on each side, approximately 2 minutes per side. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if desired.
- Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking until chicken is cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool for several minutes.
- Slice chicken and arrange on top of pita bread topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with Greek yogurt dressing and serve immediately. Enjoy!