Indulge in the flavors of the Middle East with these delectable chicken shawarma sandwiches. Marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, grilled to perfection, and wrapped in warm pita bread with tangy garlic sauce and crunchy vegetables, these sandwiches are a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. They are great for lunch, dinner, or even as a party snack. Impress your friends and family with this homemade chicken shawarma recipe that will transport you straight to the streets of Beirut.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce (optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and coat them well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Warm the pita breads on the grill or stovetop, or in a toaster.
- Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread a tablespoon of tahini sauce or garlic sauce on each pita bread. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, red onion, chopped parsley, and the grilled chicken strips.
- Fold the pita breads in half and serve immediately. You can also wrap them in foil or parchment paper for a portable meal.
- Enjoy the delicious and flavorful chicken shawarma sandwiches!