What To Know
- Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of the Middle East as we unveil the secrets to creating this flavorful chicken delicacy right in your kitchen.
- With a few simple ingredients and the power of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic chicken shawarma right in your own home.
- Yes, you can make the shawarma sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Are you a culinary enthusiast seeking a delectable and convenient dish to tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this enticing chicken shawarma recipe crafted in the versatile Instant Pot. Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of the Middle East as we unveil the secrets to creating this flavorful chicken delicacy right in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 pita breads
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
- Pickled turnips, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into 1-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken in the Instant Pot:
- Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
- Place the chicken in a steamer basket or on a trivet inside the Instant Pot.
- Secure the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
3. Make the Shawarma Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and cilantro.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Shawarma:
- Open the pita breads and spread a layer of hummus on each.
- Top with the cooked chicken, shawarma sauce, tzatziki sauce, and pickled turnips.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Fold the pita breads in half or roll them up.
- Serve immediately with additional shawarma sauce, tzatziki sauce, and pickled turnips on the side.
Tips and Variations:
- For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken pieces before cooking them in the Instant Pot.
- Adjust the spices to your taste. You can add more cumin, coriander, or paprika for a bolder flavor.
- If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Serve the shawarma with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Storing and Reheating:
- Leftover shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, wrap the shawarma in aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Additional Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the shawarma as a main course with a side of salad or soup.
- Cut the shawarma into smaller pieces and serve it as an appetizer or snack.
- Use the shawarma as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
The Art of Middle Eastern Cuisine:
Chicken shawarma is a staple dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe captures the essence of this beloved dish, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Middle East to your table.
Culinary Inspiration:
The chicken shawarma recipe is a testament to the versatility of the Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen appliance allows you to create flavorful and satisfying meals in a fraction of the time. With a few simple ingredients and the power of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic chicken shawarma right in your own home.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs are a bit fattier and have a richer flavor, while chicken breasts are leaner and have a milder flavor.
Q: Can I make the shawarma sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the shawarma sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover shawarma?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftover shawarma in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the shawarma in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for several hours. Then, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
