
Shawarma
Shawarma is a classic Egyptian dish that holds a distinguished place in traditional cooking. Celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and time-honored preparation, this dish brings authentic regional character to the home kitchen.
Carefully prepared featuring Chicken Thighs, Coriander, Cumin, Cardamom, Cayenne Pepper, Paprika, Lemon Juice, Greek Yogurt, Garlic Clove, Cumin, Lemon Juice, Lettuce, Tomato and Pita Bread, the ingredients are simmered and seasoned to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor. The cooking process allows natural aromas to develop, ensuring each portion is both hearty and flavorful.
Serve hot alongside fresh bread, steamed grains, or a crisp seasonal salad for a well-rounded dining experience.
If you enjoy authentic Egyptian cooking, be sure to also explore our recipe for Egyptian Fatteh.
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Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs1 kg
- Coriander1 tbs
- Cumin1 tbs
- Cardamom1 tbs
- Cayenne Pepper1 tsp
- Paprika2 tsp
- Lemon Juice2 tbs
- Olive Oil3 tbs
- Greek Yogurt1 cup
- Garlic Clove1
- Cumin1 tsp
- Lemon JuiceSplash
- LettuceSliced
- TomatoSliced
- Pita Bread6
Step-by-Step Instructions
17 stepsInteractive Cook Mode: Click any step or circle to check it off as you cook.
Combine the marinade ingredients in a large ziplock bag (or bowl).
Add the chicken and use your hands to make sure each piece is coated.
If using a ziplock bag, I find it convenient to close the bag then massage the bag to disperse the rub all over each chicken piece.
Marinate overnight or up to 24 hours.
Combine the Yoghurt Sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix.
Cover and put in the fridge until required (it will last for 3 days in the fridge).
Heat grill/BBQ (or large heavy based pan on stove) on medium high.
You should not need to oil it because the marinade has oil in it and also thigh fillets have fat.
But if you are worried then oil your hotplate/grill. (See notes for baking)
Place chicken on the grill and cook the first side for 4 to 5 minutes until nicely charred, then turn and cook the other side for 3 to 4 minutes (the 2nd side takes less time).
Remove chicken from the grill and cover loosely with foil.
Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.
TO SERVE
Slice chicken and pile onto platter alongside flatbreads, Salad and the Yoghurt Sauce.
To make a wrap, get a piece of flatbread and smear with Yoghurt Sauce.
Top with a bit of lettuce and tomato and Chicken Shawarma.
Roll up and enjoy!
👨🍳 Chef's Culinary Notes
Cultural Heritage
Shawarma carries a rich culinary tradition rooted in regional home cooking. Developed over generations, the recipe highlights wholesome local ingredients prepared with time-honored kitchen techniques.
Dietary Substitutions
If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, chicken thighs can be substituted with an equivalent volume of seasonal vegetables, legumes, or a protein alternative of your preference.
Chef Technique Tips
Season in stages rather than all at once at the end. Salting components as they cook draws out excess moisture, intensifies natural sugars, and builds harmonious depth of flavor throughout the dish.
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