I recently made this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe, and it instantly became one of my favorites. The chicken was tender, juicy, and bursting with Middle Eastern spices, while the creamy garlic sauce added a rich, tangy layer of flavor.

I loved how easy it was to make at home without complicated equipment. Each bite felt like a restaurant experience, but with a comforting homemade touch. After trying this, I knew it would become a regular weeknight dinner in my kitchen.

Ingredients

Every ingredient plays a key role in creating juicy, flavorful chicken and a silky sauce.

2–3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs stay juicier; breast works for leaner option.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt – Tenderizes chicken and adds creamy texture.
¼ cup olive oil – Helps marinate and cook chicken evenly.
Juice of 1 lemon – Adds bright acidity that balances spices.
2 teaspoons ground cumin – Provides warm, earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds smoky sweetness and color.
1 teaspoon ground turmeric – Gives golden hue and subtle depth.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors in the marinade.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives authentic flavor.
1 teaspoon ground coriander – Adds citrusy notes to complement chicken.
For the creamy garlic sauce: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 4 cloves garlic (minced), pinch of salt, optional paprika or fresh herbs.

Note: These quantities serve 4–6 people comfortably.

Variations

You can customize this recipe based on dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Dairy-free: Replace Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with cashew cream or silken tofu.
Protein alternatives: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options.
Extra heat: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
Herb twist: Incorporate thyme, oregano, or dill in the sauce for fresh notes.
Wrap it: Serve chicken in pita or flatbread with fresh veggies for shawarma-style wraps.

Cooking Time

Quick and simple, perfect for any day of the week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2–24 hours
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35–45 minutes (excluding marination)

Equipment You Need

Proper tools make cooking easier and more precise.

Large mixing bowl – To combine chicken and marinade thoroughly.
Zip-top plastic bag – Optional, makes marinating chicken easy.
Grill or grill pan – For smoky, charred flavor.
Oven or baking sheet – For baking method.
Skillet – For pan-searing chicken quickly.
Whisk & bowl – For mixing creamy garlic sauce evenly.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This ensures tender, flavorful meat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Choose your method: grill, bake, or pan-sear. Grill on medium-high heat 6–8 minutes per side, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, or pan-sear 5–7 minutes per side. Chicken should reach 165°F internally.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth. Add paprika or herbs if desired. This sauce complements the spiced chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Serve

Slice chicken into strips and drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce. Serve with fresh vegetables, pita, or rice. Garnish with parsley or cilantro for color and freshness.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I learned these tricks to make my shawarma extra delicious:

I always marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
I lightly pound chicken for even cooking and better spice absorption.
I add extra lemon juice to the sauce for a fresh, tangy kick.
I use a grill pan indoors if the weather doesn’t allow outdoor grilling.
I slice chicken thinly after resting to keep it juicy and tender.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?

Serve this dish as a shawarma wrap with pita, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. You can also enjoy it on a plate with rice or salad. Drizzle creamy garlic sauce generously and garnish with fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving:

Calories: ~400 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fat: 24 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Storing

Keep cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Store sauce separately to maintain creaminess.

Freezing

Marinated chicken can be frozen before cooking for up to 1 month. Cooked chicken also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to retain juiciness. Avoid microwaving directly without covering, as it may dry out the chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this shawarma is a keeper:

Juicy, flavorful chicken – Tender and perfectly spiced every time.
Creamy garlic sauce – Adds richness and tang that elevates the dish.
Versatile – Serve as wraps, plates, or meal prep options.
Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe is a flavorful, juicy, and versatile dish you can enjoy at home anytime. Pairing it with Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry with Vegetables or Chicken Pot Pie with a Biscuit Crust gives you complete meal options that are just as satisfying. Its tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy sauce create a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort.

Ash Tyrrell