Name: Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds of boneless chicken thighs; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons of ground cumin; 2 tablespoons of ground coriander; 1 tablespoon of paprika; 1 tablespoon of turmeric; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 cup of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons of lemon juice; 2 tablespoons of tahini; Salt to taste; Pita bread or flatbreads; Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce); Pickles

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 83 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor and warmth, look no further than this Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. Imagine tender, spice-marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and wrapped in soft pita bread, layered with fresh veggies and tangy pickles, all brought together by a velvety garlic sauce that makes every bite pure bliss. This Middle Eastern-inspired favorite is not just delicious, it’s a vibrant celebration of textures and tastes that you will want to make your go-to meal for lunch, dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden board holds a white flatbread at the bottom center, topped with grilled sliced chicken pieces that are golden brown with some darker grill marks. To the left of the chicken, there are round slices of cucumber with a fresh green color, sprinkled with chopped herbs. Above the cucumbers, a small brown bowl is filled with a tomato salad, made of bright red tomato chunks mixed with green herbs. On the right side of the board, there are large piles of chopped green herbs spreading vertically, with a small glass bowl of bright red sauce above yellow and orange diced bell peppers, and next to purple and white chopped onions. Above the herbs, there is a white bowl with a creamy white sauce speckled with green herbs. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each one adding a crucial note to the symphony of flavors and textures. From aromatic spices that coat the chicken thighs to fresh vegetables that bring crispness and color, every component plays a vital role in making this dish shine.

1.5 pounds of boneless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs soak up the spices better than breast meat.
4 cloves of garlic, minced: Adds pungent warmth to the marinade that infuses the chicken deeply.
2 tablespoons of ground cumin: Earthy and smoky, cumin is the backbone of the spice mix.
2 tablespoons of ground coriander: A citrusy note that balances the richness of the chicken.
1 tablespoon of paprika: Brings a sweet peppery flavor and beautiful color.
1 tablespoon of turmeric: Offers a warm, slightly bitter earthiness and golden hue.
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the spice blend.
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a gentle, spicy kick.
1/4 cup of olive oil: Helps all the spices bind to the chicken and keeps it moist during cooking.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors.
Juice of 1 lemon: Provides fresh acidity to brighten the marinade.
1 cup of plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the garlic sauce, adding tang and richness.
3 cloves of garlic, minced: For the creamy garlic sauce, giving it a bold, aromatic punch.
2 tablespoons of lemon juice: Lightens and brightens the sauce with a citrusy tang.
2 tablespoons of tahini: Adds a nutty creaminess that rounds out the sauce.
Pita bread or flatbreads: Perfect for wrapping and holding all the delicious fillings.
Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce): Bring refreshing crunch and vibrant color.
Pickles: Offer a tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce.

How to Make Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This spice blend transforms ordinary chicken thighs into an aromatic feast. Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade until every piece is coated, cover, and let it rest in the fridge for at least an hour. For the ultimate flavor depth, overnight marinating is highly recommended — patience here rewards you generously!

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken marinates, whip up the creamy garlic sauce. Simply mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and salt until smooth. This sauce is like the perfect finishing touch — tangy, garlicky, and silky. Keep it chilled and ready to drizzle just before serving, so it stays fresh and flavorful.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high and cook the marinated chicken thighs for 6 to 7 minutes per side. You want a beautiful char on the outside while ensuring the chicken is fully cooked inside—165°F (75°C) internal temperature is the safe zone. The char gives that authentic shawarma vibe with a smoky edge.

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Chicken

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy and tender. Then slice it thinly into strips — this helps you get those perfect, bite-sized pieces that wrap beautifully into pita and soak up the garlic sauce with every mouthful.

Step 5: Assemble Your Shawarma

Lay warm pita or flatbreads flat and pile on the sliced chicken, then top with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and pickles for a refreshing crunch. Finish generously with the creamy garlic sauce. The combination of spicy, tangy, creamy, and fresh textures makes every bite unforgettable!

How to Serve Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Two small soft white tortillas, each filled with grilled pieces of light brown chicken with char marks, small bits of red tomato, and chopped green herbs scattered on top. A creamy white sauce with green herbs is drizzled over the chicken in both tortillas. The tortillas are held close together by a woman's hand against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like fresh parsley, chopped mint, or a sprinkle of sumac can elevate your shawarma to restaurant-quality. These herbs bring brightness and an extra herbaceous note that complements the rich chicken and creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve your shawarma alongside classic Middle Eastern sides like tabbouleh, fattoush, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. Warm up some hummus or baba ganoush on the side for dipping, and you’ll have a full spread that’s colorful, balanced, and utterly satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling creative? Present your Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe as a platter for sharing — spread the chicken, vegetables, and sauce buffet-style with pita for guests to assemble their own wraps. Or turn it into a shawarma bowl served over fluffy rice or mixed greens for a low-carb option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken shawarma is a treat waiting to be enjoyed again. Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Keep the garlic sauce and fresh vegetables refrigerated and only freeze the protein for best texture upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out. Add a splash of water or olive oil during reheating if needed. Serve immediately with freshly added sauce and veggies for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and absorb marinade better, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster.

Is the garlic sauce very strong in garlic flavor?

The garlic flavor in the creamy garlic sauce is robust but well balanced by the tangy yogurt and tahini, so it enhances the dish without overpowering it. You can adjust the garlic quantity if you want a milder taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

You can swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or plant-based protein options like tofu or seitan and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in the sauce. The spices and sauce combo still deliver fantastic flavor.

How far ahead can I marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken overnight is ideal for maximum flavor, but marinating for as little as one hour still imparts good taste. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the lemon juice and yogurt can start to change the texture of the meat.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out?

Reheat the chicken on the stovetop with a little olive oil or cover it with foil and warm it gently in the oven. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry the meat; adding a splash of water can help retain moisture during reheating.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend making this Irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe enough — it’s a spectacular way to bring Middle Eastern flavors right into your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum joy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe promises to delight every palate and create memories around your table. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your home!