Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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I can’t count how many times I’ve made this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce because every single time it brings a little Middle Eastern magic to my table. There’s something about the way the spices cling to the chicken, the smoky char from the grill or pan, and the way the creamy garlic sauce melts into every juicy bite that just makes it irresistible. It’s one of those dishes that hits every note—bold, rich, savory, tangy—and yet feels incredibly satisfying in the simplest way.

The marinade is where the magic starts. I mix warm spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric with lemon juice and garlic, and let the chicken soak up those flavors for hours. That alone fills my kitchen with the promise of a great meal. Then when the meat hits the heat and starts to sizzle, the aroma becomes completely addictive. It’s hard to wait for it to finish cooking without sneaking a piece.

But the real star? That creamy garlic sauce. It’s smooth, potent, and completely dreamy. I’ve tried it on everything from fries to grilled vegetables, but paired with the spicy shawarma, it’s just divine. If you’re already a fan of comfort food with a kick, this recipe will win you over fast. And it’s incredibly easy to make at home without any fancy tools or ingredients.

Before we dive into the how-to, check out other crowd-pleasers you might enjoy like Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce or creamy pasta options like Creamy Beef and Shells and Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about experience. From the moment you slice into that juicy, spice-rubbed chicken, to the final bite that drips with luscious garlic sauce, you’ll understand why it’s so popular. It’s versatile enough for wraps, rice bowls, or served over salad, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

The creamy garlic sauce is outrageously good and comes together in minutes, making it the kind of thing you’ll want to keep in your fridge at all times. Plus, you don’t need a rotisserie or a spit. A hot skillet or grill pan does the trick beautifully.

This dish captures the comfort of homestyle cooking with bold restaurant-quality flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for one, it never disappoints.

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs
The dark meat is juicy, flavorful, and holds up well to high heat, making it ideal for shawarma.

Greek Yogurt
Used in the marinade to tenderize the chicken while adding a slight tang that balances the spices.

Lemon Juice
Brightens up the marinade and cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Garlic Cloves
Essential for both the marinade and the garlic sauce—this recipe is not shy about garlic.

Ground Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, and Turmeric
These spices bring warmth and depth, creating that iconic shawarma flavor.

Olive Oil
Coats the chicken and helps it char beautifully in the pan.

Salt and Black Pepper
Simple but necessary to balance and bring out all the other flavors.

Mayonnaise
Forms the base of the creamy garlic sauce, offering body and richness.

White Vinegar
Adds acidity and brightness to the sauce to contrast the creamy elements.

Parsley (for garnish)
Optional but brings a fresh pop of green and a touch of herbal sharpness.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, coating them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, until beautifully charred and cooked through. Let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, crushed garlic, white vinegar, a splash of water, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Slice the cooked chicken and drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve over rice, in wraps, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re not a fan of chicken thighs, boneless skinless chicken breasts are a leaner option and still work great with the marinade. For a plant-based twist, thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu can be substituted and will soak up the marinade beautifully.

You can play around with the spices too. Try adding cinnamon or allspice for a warmer, more aromatic profile. If you like heat, a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes gives the chicken a spicy edge.

The garlic sauce is flexible as well. Swap mayo for Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter, tangier version. A spoonful of sour cream can also mellow out the bold garlic flavor if it’s too strong for your taste.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over warm pita bread or flatbread with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers for a classic wrap. It also pairs wonderfully with fragrant rice pilaf or lemony couscous.

For a low-carb option, toss the chicken over a big chopped salad with a drizzle of the garlic sauce as dressing. It also makes a great protein addition to grain bowls or even loaded baked potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken keeps well for up to 4 days, while the garlic sauce is best used within 3 days.

To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until hot. Avoid microwaving the garlic sauce, as it can separate and lose its creamy texture. Serve it cold or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before using.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Yes! Chicken breasts are a lean alternative and still absorb the marinade well. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat juicy.

Can I grill the Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely. A grill will add even more smoky flavor. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks for that authentic touch.

How spicy is Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

The base recipe is more aromatic than spicy. But you can easily adjust the heat level by adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. The garlic sauce, however, doesn’t freeze well due to its creamy texture.

What can I serve with Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a full meal?

Serve it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or a side of rice or flatbread. Hummus or baba ganoush also make excellent accompaniments.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce has won you over, I think you’ll absolutely love trying Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce. The flavor profile is similarly bold and creamy, but it delivers a slightly different twist in a handheld wrap form that’s perfect for lunches or meal prep. Another great option to explore is Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you’re craving a comforting bowl experience.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this flavorful masterpiece get lost in your recipe pile! Pin this Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce to your favorite board on Pinterest so you can always find it when a craving hits. Whether you’re meal planning, prepping for guests, or just need a go-to dinner idea, this recipe is worth keeping.

If you loved it, share the love! Post it on Facebook, drop it in your favorite foodie group, or send it directly to a friend who needs a little dinnertime inspiration. Good food is meant to be shared, and this one’s a crowd-pleaser.

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