Spiced Grilled Chicken Shawarma

There’s something undeniably magical about the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine that can transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Among the most cherished dishes that have gained global popularity is Chicken Shawarma. Traditionally slow-roasted on a spit and shaved off in thin slices, shawarma is a flavorful and succulent delight. However, you don’t need a spit to create this culinary masterpiece at home. This blog post will guide you through an easy and delicious recipe for Spiced Grilled Chicken Shawarma that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

For this recipe, you will need:

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless skinless chicken thighs

For the Marinade:

• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fine salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 4 tsp ground cumin
• 4 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Directions:

The secret to an exceptional Shawarma lies in its marinade. The blend of spices in this recipe is designed to infuse the chicken with a depth of flavor that’s both complex and harmoniously balanced.

1. Marinade Preparation: Begin by combining the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, ground cloves, and cayenne pepper in a large ziplock bag. This aromatic mixture will serve as the marinade that imbues the chicken thighs with a rich and exotic flavor profile.
2. Marinating the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bag with the marinade. Seal the bag and ensure that all pieces are well-coated with the marinade. For the best results, let the chicken marinate for 1 to 8 hours, ideally overnight. The longer it marinates, the more pronounced the flavors will be.
3. Cooking the Chicken: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re cooking indoors, a cast iron skillet or an oven set to 400°F (204°C) will work just fine. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill or skillet. For grilling, cook each side for 3-4 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you’re using a skillet, cook each side for 4-6 minutes. For baking, place the chicken on a parchment-lined sheet pan and bake for 25-35 minutes until fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions:

Spiced Grilled Chicken Shawarma can be served in various delicious ways. Slice the cooked chicken into thin pieces and serve them wrapped in a pita or flatbread, accompanied by fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, or even a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can adapt to your preferences.

Nutritional Information:

This Spiced Grilled Chicken Shawarma is not just about tantalizing your taste buds; it’s also a healthier alternative to many fast-food options. Per serving, this recipe approximately contains:

• Calories: 258
• Servings: 6

Preparation and Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes

This Spiced Grilled Chicken Shawarma recipe is a celebration of flavors and aromas that will transport your dining experience to the Middle East without leaving your home. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet sophisticated enough for a special occasion. Enjoy the process of creating this dish, and more importantly, enjoy every flavorful bite with your loved ones.

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