Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

An easy and delicious Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe combines aromatic spices with juicy chicken to create a meal that is not only flavorful but also versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or enjoying a picnic, this grilled chicken can be served on its own, with couscous, or stuffed in pita bread. Its standout qualities include a delightful blend of spices and a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce that perfectly complements the grilled meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Bold Flavors: The unique combination of spices delivers an explosion of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over couscous, rice pilaf, or in a pita – this recipe adapts to any side dish you prefer.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s great for those watching their diet without sacrificing taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The marinade can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient. Having the right equipment ensures that you can easily follow along with the recipe and achieve great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect grill marks on your chicken.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly while minimizing mess.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing your marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: A handy tool for blending liquids smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

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

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice; whisk until well blended.
2. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper; whisk again until combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken.
2. Massage it gently to coat all pieces evenly.
3. Refrigerate and let marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

1. In a small bowl (or directly in its container), combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Stir well to mix everything together; refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Grill each piece of chicken for about 3 minutes or until it no longer sticks to the grill grates.
3. Flip each breast over and grill for an additional 3–4 minutes until cooked through.
4. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 6: Serve

Top each sliced breast with two tablespoons of garlic yogurt sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken!

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 many delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Over Couscous

• Couscous is a light and fluffy base that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the grilled chicken. Top it with fresh cucumbers and a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce for added freshness.

In a Pita

• Stuff the flavorful chicken into warm pita bread for a quick and satisfying wrap. Add lettuce, tomatoes, and extra garlic yogurt sauce for a delicious touch.

With Rice Pilaf

• Serve the chicken alongside fragrant rice pilaf. The spices in the rice complement the shawarma flavors beautifully, making for a hearty meal.

On a Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce and add your favorite vegetables for a refreshing salad option.

As Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create shawarma-inspired tacos. Fill them with sliced chicken, pickled onions, and drizzled yogurt sauce for a fun twist!

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with a medley of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

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

To ensure your shawarma-spiced chicken is tender and bursting with flavor, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Pound evenly: Ensure each piece of chicken is pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Use high heat: Grilling at medium-high heat helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Rest before slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling ensures the juices redistribute, making it moist.
• Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak the spice levels according to your taste preferences; more or less can make a big difference.
• Fresh ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs will boost the overall flavor of your garlic yogurt sauce.

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

Pair your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Tabbouleh Salad
   This refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds brightness to your meal.
2. Hummus
   Creamy hummus served with pita chips or veggies makes for an excellent dip that pairs well with grilled meats.
3. Roasted Chickpeas
   Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices offer a healthy snack or side that goes well with this dish.
4. Fattoush Salad
   A vibrant mix of greens and crispy pita chips tossed in tangy dressing brings texture and freshness to your plate.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the spices in the chicken beautifully; serve it hot off the grill.
6. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
   Packed with nutrients, this salad features quinoa mixed with cucumbers, olives, and feta—ideal for balancing flavors.
7. Spiced Lentils
   A warm lentil dish seasoned lightly offers protein-rich nourishment while pairing well with grilled chicken.
8. Pickled Vegetables
   Tangy pickles can enhance every bite by providing acidity that cuts through the richness of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing flavor. Don’t rush this process; let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least one hour, or preferably overnight for maximum taste.
• Using unevenly cut chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are not of uniform thickness, they will cook unevenly. To avoid this, pound each breast to about ½-inch thick before grilling.
• Not preheating the grill: A hot grill is essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and preventing sticking. Always preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Neglecting the resting time: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest before slicing helps retain its juices. Don’t skip this step; let it rest for about 5 minutes after grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the garlic yogurt sauce in a separate container to maintain its freshness.

Freezing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Place cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, freeze without the yogurt sauce, as dairy doesn’t freeze well.

Reheating Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and reheat sliced chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by traditional shawarma, featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with garlic yogurt sauce.

How do I serve Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

This dish is versatile; serve it over couscous, rice pilaf, or inside pita bread with fresh vegetables and additional sauces for added flavor.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spice levels or add other favorite spices like coriander or allspice according to your taste preferences.

How long does Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken last in the fridge?

Properly stored, cooked shawarma-spiced chicken can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator when kept in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce offers a delightful mix of flavors that can elevate any meal. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it over grains, in wraps, or even salads. Experiment with different sides and toppings to make this dish truly your own! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern flavors that brings together juicy grilled chicken and a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual weeknight meal. The aromatic blend of spices infuses the chicken with bold flavors while the garlic yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch. Serve it over fluffy couscous, inside warm pita bread, or alongside your favorite salad for a versatile dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 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)
• 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 the chicken breasts to an even thickness and set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices; whisk to create the marinade.
3. Coat the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt; refrigerate until ready.
5. Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes total until cooked through.
6. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing and serve topped with garlic yogurt sauce and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 284
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 85mg