Chicken Shawarma
20M
40M
- Makes 4 servings
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup tahini sauce
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Warm the pita breads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side.
- Assemble the shawarma by placing the sliced chicken on the pita bread, then topping with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with tahini sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your authentic Chicken Shawarma!
Chicken Shawarma: A Middle Eastern Delight
History
Chicken Shawarma, a beloved dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, has a rich history that traces back to the Ottoman Empire. The word “shawarma” is derived from the Turkish word “çevirme,” meaning “turning,” which refers to the traditional method of cooking the meat on a vertical rotisserie. This technique was introduced to the Middle East during the Ottoman expansion and has since become a staple street food across countries like Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan. Over time, the dish evolved from lamb to include chicken, catering to a wider audience and becoming a global favorite.
Taste Profile
The taste of Chicken Shawarma is a harmonious blend of spices and herbs that create a unique and irresistible flavor. The marinade typically includes ingredients like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and garlic, which infuse the chicken with a warm, aromatic essence. When grilled, the chicken develops a slightly smoky flavor, enhancing its overall taste. Served in soft pita bread with crisp vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and drizzled with creamy tahini sauce, Chicken Shawarma offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh notes that delight the palate.
Cultural Significance
In Middle Eastern cuisine, Chicken Shawarma holds a special place as a symbol of communal dining and hospitality. It is commonly found in bustling street markets and family-owned eateries, where it serves as a quick and satisfying meal for locals and tourists alike. The dish embodies the region’s culinary tradition of using bold spices and fresh ingredients, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Middle Eastern food over centuries. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a late-night snack, Chicken Shawarma brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment of good food.
