Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful twist on the classic Turkish street food, bringing bold flavors and ease to your dining table. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, pairs beautifully with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser that stands out in any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The shawarma spices infuse the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over couscous, rice pilaf, or in pita for a delicious meal tailored to your preferences.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken overnight for even deeper flavor and easier cooking on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Ziploc bag
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfect grilling results.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating chicken thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that the marinade ingredients blend well for maximum flavor infusion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Juice from 1 medium lemon
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon curry powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• 7-ounce container 2% Greek yogurt (I like Fage)
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts, one at a time, in a Ziploc bag.
2. Pound each breast to an even thickness of about ½-inch thick. Be careful not to puncture the bag.
3. Return the pounded chicken breasts back into the bag and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. Whisk until combined.
2. Add minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk again until all ingredients are mixed well.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken.
2. Massage it gently to ensure that each piece is evenly coated.
3. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce

1. In a small bowl (or directly in its container), combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and kosher salt.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Grill each piece of chicken for about 3 minutes or until it no longer sticks to the grill.
3. Flip each breast and grill for an additional 3–4 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain.

Step 6: Serve

Top each sliced breast with approximately 2 tablespoons of garlic yogurt sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce!

How to Serve Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Couscous

• Couscous is a fluffy base that absorbs the flavors of the chicken and sauce perfectly. Add fresh cucumbers and herbs for a refreshing crunch.

Wrapped in Pita Bread

• Place sliced chicken in warm pita bread and top with garlic yogurt sauce, lettuce, and tomatoes for an easy-to-eat meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

With Rice Pilaf

• Serve the grilled chicken over aromatic rice pilaf. The spices in the rice will complement the shawarma spices beautifully.

Topped on Salads

• Slice the grilled chicken and place it atop mixed greens. Drizzle with extra garlic yogurt sauce for a healthy and satisfying salad option.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roast seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. The sweetness of the veggies balances the savory flavors of the chicken.

As a Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include slices of shawarma-spiced chicken on a mezze platter with hummus, baba ganoush, olives, and pita chips for an inviting appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

To ensure your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic, lemon juice, and quality olive oil to enhance flavor.
• Marinate longer: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just an hour.
• Pound evenly: Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it juicy and flavorful.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify spices according to your taste preference; add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Best Side Dishes for Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken adds variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon dressing that brightens up your plate.
2. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that pairs well with grilled chicken; serve it alongside pita chips or fresh veggies.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that balances out the lightness of the chicken.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt enhances your meal’s flavors during BBQ season.
5. Eggplant Baba Ganoush: Smoky eggplant dip that adds depth; enjoy it spread on bread or as a dip alongside your main course.
6. Cucumber Salad: Cool cucumber slices tossed in yogurt dressing bring a refreshing contrast to spicy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce can be simple, but there are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Ignoring the marinade time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor.

• Using uneven chicken pieces: If the chicken breasts are not of even thickness, they will cook unevenly. Pound them to about ½-inch thick to ensure uniform cooking.

• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Always let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Each ingredient’s strength varies. Taste your marinade before adding it to the chicken and adjust salt or spices as needed for your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the garlic yogurt sauce in a separate container for freshness.

Freezing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed thoroughly.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and heat the chicken slices for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by traditional shawarma, featuring marinated grilled chicken infused with spices like cumin and paprika, served with garlic yogurt sauce.

How do I customize my Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

You can customize this recipe by adding different spices or herbs based on your taste preferences. Consider using smoked paprika or adding chili powder for extra heat!

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken breasts, you can substitute them with thighs or even lamb, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option while keeping the marinade similar.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time includes a prep time of about 10 minutes plus marinating time (at least 1 hour). Cooking takes another 15 minutes, making it a relatively quick meal overall!

Final Thoughts

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings Mediterranean street food right to your kitchen. Its versatility allows for various serving options like couscous, rice pilaf, or pita wraps. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or side dishes that match your taste! Give it a try; you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. This mouthwatering dish takes inspiration from traditional Turkish street food, featuring tender grilled chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of spices. Paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings alike. The versatility of this recipe allows you to serve it over fluffy couscous, in warm pita bread, or alongside a fresh salad, making it a delightful addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your guests with delicious flavors that are both bold and comforting.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Juice from 1 medium lemon
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 7-ounce container Greek yogurt
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and place in a Ziploc bag.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and spices in a bowl; pour over chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Prepare garlic yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl; refrigerate until ready to use.
4. Preheat grill and cook marinated chicken for about 6–8 minutes total until cooked through.
5. Let rest before slicing and serve topped with garlic yogurt sauce and garnished with parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 105mg