Baked Chicken Shawarma

Baked Chicken Shawarma: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight Cooked to Perfection! 🍗🔥😋

1. Introduction

Craving the exotic flavors of the Middle East without the hassle of a vertical spit? Look no further! This baked chicken shawarma recipe brings the authentic taste of shawarma right to your kitchen using your trusty oven. Forget complicated equipment; with our easy baked shawarma method, you can enjoy tender, flavorful chicken shawarma any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this homemade chicken shawarma is surprisingly simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or wowing guests at your next gathering. If you’re looking for more great dinner ideas, check out our dinner recipes!

2. Why This Recipe Works

This baked chicken shawarma recipe stands out because it replicates the traditional shawarma experience without requiring specialized equipment. By marinating the chicken in a blend of authentic spices and then baking it to perfection, we achieve a similar depth of flavor and tenderness as the rotisserie version. The beauty of chicken shawarma oven cooking is its simplicity and convenience. The oven’s consistent heat ensures even cooking, resulting in juicy, perfectly spiced chicken every time. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to street vendor shawarma, as you control the ingredients and avoid excessive oil. This method allows for customization—adjust the spices to your liking and pair it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal. If you are interested in alternative cooking methods, you may like our recipe about Broiled Salmon with Dill

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons shawarma spice blend (cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, and your favorite toppings for serving

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, shawarma spice blend, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. This marination process is crucial for infusing the chicken with the authentic shawarma taste, making it a key step in this easy baked shawarma preparation. For best results, marinate overnight! This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, giving you that authentic shawarma taste. For more Mediterranean inspired dishes, check out this recipe.

Step 2: Preparing the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure that the pieces are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. This step in the chicken shawarma oven method is essential to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust we all love. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. Trust us, you’ll thank us later! If you enjoy easy clean up, try our Baked Parmesan Zucchini Chips Recipe.

Step 3: Baking the Chicken

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be nicely browned and slightly crispy around the edges. If you want an extra crispy texture, you can broil the chicken for the last few minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning. This homemade chicken shawarma is now becoming a reality, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. For a similar roasted recipe, you can try our Roasted Red Pepper Soup.

Step 4: Serving the Shawarma

Remove the baked chicken shawarma from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the shawarma hot in pita bread with your favorite toppings such as hummus, tahini sauce, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. You can also serve it over rice or in a salad for a lighter option. Enjoy your delicious, easy baked shawarma! Elevate your shawarma experience by adding a dollop of homemade garlic sauce. It takes just minutes to make and adds a creamy, flavorful element to your meal. Or, if you’re looking for something lighter, try serving it with our Grilled Peach Salad for a refreshing twist.

5. Tips for the Perfect Baked Chicken Shawarma

• Marinate for Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the chicken pieces are in a single layer with enough space between them to allow for even browning.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Broil for Crispiness: For extra crispy edges, broil the chicken for the last few minutes, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
• Customize Your Spices: Adjust the shawarma spice blend to your liking. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

6. Serving Suggestions

Baked chicken shawarma is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Classic Pita Sandwich: Serve the shawarma in warm pita bread with hummus, tahini sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.
• Shawarma Plate: Arrange the chicken on a plate with rice, a side salad, and a dollop of hummus.
• Salad Topping: Use the shawarma as a protein-packed topping for a fresh salad.
• Wrap: Create a wrap with the shawarma, veggies, and your favorite sauce in a large tortilla.

Want to discover other amazing recipes? Head over to MealsMom Recipes for a wide selection!

7. Variations

• Spicy Shawarma: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Herb Shawarma: Incorporate lemon zest and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro into the marinade for a brighter, fresher flavor.
• Vegetable Shawarma: Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the baking sheet along with the chicken for a vegetable-packed shawarma. Give some twist to your shawarma and try our Baked Stuffed Tomatoes, too!

8. Health Benefits

This baked chicken shawarma recipe offers several health benefits. Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle building and overall health. The use of yogurt in the marinade adds probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. The spices used in the shawarma blend have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Baking the chicken instead of frying it reduces the fat content, making it a healthier alternative to traditional shawarma. If you’re looking for another healthy recipe, consider trying our Roasted Garlic Lentil Soup.

9. Conclusion

With this baked chicken shawarma recipe, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of the Middle East in the comfort of your own home. It’s an easy baked shawarma option that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this homemade chicken shawarma is sure to be a hit. So, fire up your chicken shawarma oven and get ready to savor every delicious bite! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to check out MealsMom for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes!

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