Chicken Shawarma Recipe

What Is Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food made with chicken marinated in warm spices, then cooked until juicy and flavorful. It is traditionally roasted on a vertical spit, where thin slices are shaved off and served in wraps, pita sandwiches, rice bowls, or salads.

At home, you can recreate the same delicious flavor using simple ingredients and an easy cooking method. Serve it with warm pita bread, cucumber pickles, crispy fries, and creamy garlic sauce for an authentic shawarma experience.

This homemade chicken shawarma recipe is easy to follow and tastes even better than takeout.

Watch How to Make it!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Recipe

• Easy to make: The marinade comes together with simple ingredients like yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and warm spices. Once marinated, the chicken cooks quickly.
• Quick cooking: After marinating, the chicken cooks in minutes, making this a great option for lunch or dinner.
• Better than takeout: Juicy chicken, crisp pickles, warm pita, fries, and creamy garlic sauce create an authentic shawarma experience at home.
• Family favorite: This flavorful chicken shawarma is always a hit and easy to customize for everyone.
• Versatile: Use chicken thighs or chicken breast, and add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, or extra sauce.
• Authentic flavor: Enjoy the bold Middle Eastern flavors of classic shawarma without leaving home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Full measurements are in the recipe card below.

For the Chicken Shawarma Marinade

• Chicken: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast. Thighs stay extra juicy, while chicken breast is a leaner option.
• Garlic: Adds bold savory flavor to the marinade.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Plain yogurt: Helps create tender, juicy chicken and adds a subtle tang.
• Olive oil: Helps coat the chicken evenly and blend the spices.
• Spices: Salt, paprika, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and black pepper give shawarma its warm, classic Middle Eastern flavor.
• Neutral oil: Use for cooking the chicken in a skillet or pan.

For the Shawarma Sandwich

• Pita bread: Soft Arabic pita bread or flatbread for wrapping.
• French fries: A classic shawarma sandwich addition that adds texture and flavor.
• Toum (Lebanese garlic sauce): Creamy, bold, and delicious with chicken shawarma.
• Cucumber pickles: Tangy and crunchy for the perfect contrast.
• Optional toppings: tomatoes, onions, lettuce, parsley.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma

The full printable recipe card is below, but here is a quick step-by-step guide.

Step 1  

In a bowl, combine the garlic, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices until smooth.

Step 2

Add the chicken and coat well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate for 3 hours or overnight.

Step 3 

Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat with a little neutral oil.

Step 4

Add the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook on both sides until golden and fully cooked. Thin chicken breast pieces may take about 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Step 5  

Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and slice into strips.

Step 6 

Spread toum (Lebanese garlic sauce) down the center of the pita bread.

Step 7

Top with French fries, sliced chicken shawarma, and cucumber pickles.

Step 8 

Roll the pita tightly into a wrap. Slice in half if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma

• Marinate longer for better flavor: Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best flavor and tenderness.
• Use chicken thighs for juiciness: Chicken thighs stay extra tender and flavorful, while chicken breast is a leaner option.
• Do not overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed so it sears properly instead of steaming.
• Use medium-high heat: The pan should be hot, but not smoking, for a golden exterior and juicy interior.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and spices make a big difference in flavor.
• Warm the pita bread: Briefly warm or lightly toast the pita before assembling for the best texture.
• Slice after cooking: Let the chicken rest for a minute, then slice into strips for juicy shawarma pieces.

Easy Chicken Shawarma Variations

• Spicy chicken shawarma: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or sliced jalapeños to the marinade.
• Beef shawarma: Use thinly sliced beef instead of chicken and adjust cooking time as needed.
• Low-carb shawarma bowl: Serve the chicken over salad or cauliflower rice instead of pita bread.
• Loaded shawarma wrap: Add tomatoes, onions, lettuce, extra pickles, or more garlic sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma

Serve chicken shawarma in warm pita bread with garlic sauce, fries, and cucumber pickles for the classic experience.

You can also serve it:

• over rice
• in a salad bowl
• with hummus and fresh vegetables
• with fries on the side

For meal prep, pack the chicken separately and assemble wraps when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for chicken shawarma?

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while chicken breast is leaner.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 1 hour, but 3 hours or overnight gives the best flavor and tenderness.

What bread is best for shawarma?

Soft Arabic pita bread or flatbread works best for wraps and shawarma sandwiches.

Can I bake chicken shawarma instead of frying it?

Yes. Bake the marinated chicken in a hot oven until fully cooked, then slice into strips.

Is chicken shawarma spicy?

Traditional chicken shawarma is flavorful and aromatic, but not usually very spicy. You can add chili flakes or cayenne for heat.

What sauce goes with chicken shawarma?

Toum (Lebanese garlic sauce), tahini sauce, or yogurt sauce are all delicious options.

Can I make chicken shawarma ahead of time?

Yes. Marinate the chicken in advance and cook when ready, or cook it ahead and reheat before serving.

How to Store Chicken Shawarma

Store leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or in the microwave until heated through.

For the best texture, reheat the chicken separately and assemble fresh wraps before serving.

Please Rate and Review

If you tried this Chicken Shawarma recipe and enjoyed it, please leave a 5-star rating and a comment below. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!