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Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma

Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp turmeric
  • 2 tsp garlic salt
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 4 tbsp crushed garlic
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 3 skewers optional

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade

  • In a large bowl, mix together all the spices (paprika, turmeric, garlic salt, salt, coriander, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne, and onion powder), the chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice to create the marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

  • Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Cooking Options

  • If using vertical skewers, thread the marinated chicken thighs onto the skewers. Use half an onion to secure the top of the skewer. Place the skewers upright on a baking sheet and cook at 400°F on the lower oven rack. Rotate the skewers every 20 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (about 45 minutes).
  • If using regular skewers, cut the marinated chicken into 1-inch pieces and thread them onto the skewers. Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cook at 400°F on the middle rack, flipping halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 25-30 minutes).
  • If youʼre not using skewers, simply lay the marinated chicken thighs flat on a baking sheet. Cook at 400°F on the middle rack, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 25-30 minutes).

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the chicken in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki, or make a shawarma bowl with rice and veggies. Alternatively, toss the chicken into a salad with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor. Vertical skewers add
authenticity but are optional.