Chicken Shawarma (Arabian specialty)

Chicken Shawarma Recipe at Home

When it comes to dishes that make us feel like we are in the middle of a vibrant market, full of aromas and colors, chicken shawarma definitely tops the list. This savory recipe, with Arabic influences, brings an authentic taste to your kitchen. It is a perfect choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s venture into preparing this delicious dish!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 48 hours
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total: 2 days and 35 minutes
Number of Servings: 4 servings (4 sandwiches)

Ingredients

For the marinade:
- 1/2 chicken (boneless and skinless), sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1.5 tablespoons of vinegar
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed or chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of yogurt
- 2-3 lemon slices, each cut into 4
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- A pinch of ground cardamom (or to taste)
- About 6 whole cardamom pods
- 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil

For the shawarma:
- 3 thin flatbreads (each about 54 cm in diameter), cut into 4 triangles
- 4 tablespoons of tahini
- 4 tablespoons of yogurt
- A little salt
- 5 pickles, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of sumac
- 2 tomatoes, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, vinegar, crushed garlic, salt, yogurt, lemon slices, pepper, and cardamom (both ground and pods).
2. Add the chicken slices to the marinade and ensure they are well coated with the mixture.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 48 hours. Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
1. After marinating, remove the chicken slices from the marinade and let them drain slightly.
2. Heat a skillet with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken slices and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan for even browning.

Step 3: Preparing the Sauce
1. In a small bowl, mix tahini, yogurt, and a little salt to taste. This creamy and flavorful sauce will add a special taste to your shawarma.

Step 4: Assembling the Shawarma
1. Take the flatbread triangles and place 2 tablespoons of sauce at the base of each triangle.
2. Add 3 slices of pickled cucumber, a few slices of cooked chicken, a tablespoon of finely chopped onion, and a sprinkle of sumac.
3. Top with 2 halves of a tomato slice.
4. Roll the triangle starting from the base and ensure to close the ends to form a sandwich. This step is essential to prevent the filling from leaking.

Step 5: Heating and Serving
1. Place the shawarmas on an ungreased baking tray and put them in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 180°C, just to warm them slightly.
2. Serve the shawarmas warm, alongside French fries or a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions
For an even more enjoyable experience, you can add extra sauces, such as garlic sauce or chili. Additionally, a cabbage salad with lemon and dill pairs perfectly. If you want to give them a more sophisticated touch, you can add sliced avocado or feta cheese.

Practical Tips
- Marinating: Marinating improves not only flavor but also textures. You can experiment with different spices in the marinade to give it a personal twist.
- Flatbreads: If you can’t find thin flatbreads, you can use tortillas or pita, although the taste will be slightly different.
- Spices: Sumac is an essential spice that provides a tangy flavor. In its absence, you can experiment with a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.

Nutritional Benefits
This chicken shawarma is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, and yogurt and tahini add a portion of calcium and healthy fats. The pickled cucumbers contribute probiotics, aiding digestion, while fresh vegetables bring essential vitamins for health.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use beef or lamb?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and beef or lamb can provide a different and interesting flavor.

How can I make a vegetarian shawarma?
Replace the chicken with falafel or roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or peppers.

What drinks pair well with shawarma?
A cold yogurt drink with mint or mint tea are excellent choices to complement the meal.

How long can I keep the shawarmas?
If you have leftover shawarma, you can store them in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or in a skillet to revive them.

In conclusion, chicken shawarma is not only a delicious dish but also an exploration of culinary art that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Experiment, personalize, and enjoy every bite!