An easy and flavorful dish, Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce brings a taste of Turkish street food to your kitchen. This grilled chicken is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings. The marinade packs a punch of spices that will impress your guests while being simple enough for any home cook to master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The blend of spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates the chicken.
• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delightful meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over couscous, rice pilaf, or stuffed in pita bread for an easy lunch or dinner.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe is a great choice for a nutritious meal.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor, making it ideal for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Ziploc bag
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Small mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides that charred flavor that makes grilled chicken so appealing.
• Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly without making a mess.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients together effectively.

Ingredients

An easy, grilled chicken version of the classic Turkish street food which is usually cooked on a rotating spit. It is perfect served over couscous with yogurt and cucumbers as I did here, or try it with rice pilaf, or on a pita.

For the Chicken

• 1 pound 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Juice from 1 medium lemon
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon curry powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• 7-ounce container 2% Greek yogurt (I like Fage)
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Pound the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts, one at a time, in a Ziploc bag. Pound each breast to an even thickness of about ½-inch thick. Be careful not to puncture the bag. Once pounded, place the chicken back into the bag and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. Whisk until combined. Add minced garlic along with cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk again until well mixed.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken. Massage it to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for best results.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl (or right in the yogurt container), combine Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, and kosher salt. Stir to combine everything thoroughly and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes on one side or until it no longer sticks to the grill. Flip and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes. After cooking through, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 6: Serve

Top each sliced breast with about 2 tablespoons of garlic yogurt sauce and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately alongside couscous or rice pilaf!

How to Serve Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light snack, here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Over Couscous

• Couscous is a perfect base for the chicken, absorbing the flavors of the marinade and sauce. Top with diced cucumbers and fresh herbs for added crunch.

In a Pita

• Stuff the grilled chicken into warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Drizzle extra garlic yogurt sauce on top for a delicious wrap.

With Rice Pilaf

• Serve the chicken alongside fragrant rice pilaf. The nutty flavors of the rice complement the spices in the chicken beautifully.

On a Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken and place it on a bed of mixed greens. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to create a refreshing salad.

As Skewers

• Cut the chicken into cubes and thread onto skewers. Grill them for an easy appetizer or party dish, served with garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots. The charred flavors enhance the overall taste of the meal.

How to Perfect Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

To ensure your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor penetration and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices deliver more vibrant flavors. Check your pantry for freshness before using.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve a good sear on your chicken, locking in moisture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook until just done; overcooking will dry out the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also freshness to each bite when garnished on top of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Pairing delicious sides with your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic side dishes that complement this flavorful main course.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mixture of parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat dressed in lemon juice.
2. Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip is perfect for spreading on pita or enjoying alongside veggies.
3. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant slices add depth and flavor while being healthy.
4. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad made from mixed greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a satisfying side that pairs well with grilled dishes.
6. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Cool cucumbers combined with yogurt provide a refreshing contrast to spicy flavors.
7. Olive Tapenade: A savory spread made from olives that adds richness when served with bread or crackers.
8. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These flavorful bites filled with rice and herbs make an excellent accompaniment to any Mediterranean meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Boldly skip the marinating time: Many people rush this step. Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour (or overnight) allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing the taste.

• Boldly overlook the resting period: After grilling, it’s crucial to let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain juices, ensuring a moist and tender result.

• Boldly ignore thickness uniformity: If the chicken breasts are not pounded evenly, they will cook unevenly. Make sure each piece is about ½-inch thick for consistent cooking.

• Boldly use subpar yogurt: The quality of yogurt matters. Use a good brand like Fage for a rich and creamy garlic sauce that complements the spiced chicken beautifully.

• Boldly forget about seasoning adjustment: Taste your marinade! Adjust salt or spices according to your preference before applying it to the chicken for optimal flavor satisfaction.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.
• Keep the garlic yogurt sauce in a separate container if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Place cooled, cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring marinated grilled chicken seasoned with Middle Eastern spices and served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, it’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, though marinating overnight will enhance the taste even more.

Can I customize the spices in Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices based on personal preferences or add different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique twists.

How can I serve Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

This dish is versatile; serve it over couscous, rice pilaf, or inside pita bread. Pairing it with fresh veggies enhances both texture and flavor.

What sides go well with this recipe?

Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even hummus complement Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken beautifully and provide balance to your meal.

Final Thoughts

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your tastes—experimenting with different marinades or sides can elevate this dish even further! Enjoy making this flavorful recipe today!

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Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a deliciously easy dish that transports you to the vibrant streets of Turkey right from your kitchen. This savory grilled chicken is marinated in a rich blend of spices, including cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon, delivering an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, this recipe offers versatility in serving options—enjoy it over couscous, stuffed in pita bread, or alongside rice pilaf. Pair it with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce to enhance the overall taste. With only 10 minutes of prep time and the option to marinate overnight for even more flavor, this dish is as convenient as it is appetizing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon curry powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 7-ounce container 2% Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and place them in a Ziploc bag.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and spices in a medium bowl.
3. Pour marinade into the bag with the chicken and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight recommended).
4. Mix garlic yogurt sauce ingredients in a small bowl and refrigerate until use.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat; grill chicken for about 3 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing; serve topped with yogurt sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Turkish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of grilled chicken (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 50g
• Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: Marinating longer enhances flavor. Use fresh spices for optimal taste. Don’t skip letting the chicken rest before slicing for juicy results.