Description
Bring bold Mediterranean flavors to your table with this irresistible Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Juicy, spice-marinated chicken is grilled to a smoky perfection and generously topped with a tangy, garlicky cream sauce. Whether you serve it in a pita wrap or over a bowl of rice, this dish is a knockout for quick dinners, backyard BBQs, or meal prep days.
Perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas, healthy food options, or just a new favorite for easy recipes that don’t skimp on flavor. It’s one of those easy dinner ideas that feels restaurant-worthy but is completely doable at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
3 garlic cloves, finely grated or mashed
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Salt to taste
For Serving:
Warm pita or flatbread
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled onions (optional)
Notes
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Coat the chicken evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 5-7 minutes per side until charred and fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Let it rest before slicing.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Adjust salt and add water if needed for a pourable consistency.
- Assemble: Layer chicken on flatbread or bowls, drizzle with sauce, and top with herbs and optional veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner