Ramadan Recipes : Chicken Shawarma

Chicken shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that is typically made by marinating thinly sliced chicken in a mixture of spices (such as cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic, and lemon juice) and then grilling it on a spit until it is crispy and charred. The chicken is usually served wrapped in a pita bread with vegetables such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and cucumber, and a variety of sauces such as hummus, tzatziki, or tahini. Chicken shawarma is a popular street food in many parts of the world and is known for its delicious flavor and satisfying texture.

Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Pita bread
• Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers for serving
• Tahini sauce or garlic sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat them in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
4. Arrange the marinated chicken on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
5. Let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then use a sharp knife to slice it into thin strips.
6. To assemble the shawarma, place a piece of pita bread on a plate and top it with some lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. Add a few slices of the cooked chicken on top.
7. Drizzle some tahini sauce or garlic sauce on top, if desired.
8. Roll up the pita bread tightly around the filling, and enjoy!

Note: You can also cook the chicken on a grill instead of baking it in the oven. Simply grill the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.