Secrets to Making Delicious Arabian Shawarma at Home
If there’s one dish that can instantly transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of the Middle East, it’s the Arabian Shawarma. Juicy, flavorful, and wrapped in soft pita bread, this street-food favorite is surprisingly easy to make at home — and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever bought it outside!
Let’s dive into how you can whip up authentic, mouthwatering Arabian shawarma right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
500g boneless chicken thighs or breast (thighs are juicier)
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional but gives a warm aroma)
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic (crushed)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
A pinch of salt
Pita bread or flatbread
Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and pickles
Instructions
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Marinate the ChickenIn a bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients together. Add your chicken and coat it well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
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Cook the ChickenYou can cook your marinated chicken in a few ways:
Oven: Preheat to 200°C (400°F) and bake for about 25 minutes.
Grill: Cook on medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown.
Pan-fry: Heat a little oil and cook on each side until done.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
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Make the Garlic SauceIn a small bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust lemon or garlic based on your taste preference.
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Assemble Your ShawarmaSpread the garlic sauce on your pita bread, add the sliced chicken, and top it with fresh veggies and pickles. Roll it up tightly — and there you have it, your homemade Arabian shawarma!
Recipe Notes
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Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
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Char it slightly on a grill or in a pan for that authentic street-style flavor.
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Don’t skip the pickles! They balance the richness of the meat beautifully.
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Add a drizzle of tahini sauce or hot sauce for an extra flavor kick.
