How to Make the Perfect Classic Chicken Shawarma
Levantine · Medium · 50 min · 4 servings
Tender marinated chicken thighs are seasoned with warm spices and roasted until juicy with beautifully charred edges. This street food staple brings the bold flavors of Levantine cuisine straight to your home kitchen.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Chicken Shawarma recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 50 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 cloves garlic minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl combine olive oil, turmeric, smoked paprika, cinnamon, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat every piece evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare
Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer without overlapping.
Step 3: Roast the Chicken
Roast the chicken for 30 to 35 minutes until cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Switch to the broiler for the last 3 to 4 minutes to create those signature charred edges that make shawarma so irresistible.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. Serve in warm flatbread with garlic sauce, pickled turnips, and fresh vegetables for an authentic shawarma experience.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- chicken thighs → chicken breast sliced thin though it will be slightly less juicy
- smoked paprika → regular paprika combined with a pinch of cayenne pepper
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the marinating time and cooking the chicken immediately which results in bland meat without developed flavor
- Not resting the chicken before slicing which causes all the juices to run out leaving the meat dry
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 38g protein, 8g carbs, 26g fat, 2g fiber.
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