Chicken Shawarma Recipe Saturday Kitchen

Chicken shawarma, a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and vibrant flavors. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey, recreating this delectable dish using the inspiration from Saturday Kitchen. Our recipe promises to transport you to the bustling streets of the Middle East, where the scent of shawarma fills the air.

Gather Your Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors Awaits

To create this flavorful masterpiece, you’ll need:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon shawarma spice mix (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, black pepper, and salt)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup tahini sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped tomato
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 4 pita breads, warmed
• Hummus, for serving
• Tzatziki sauce, for serving

Prepare the Marinade: Infusing Chicken with Exotic Spices

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, shawarma spice mix, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade.

Marinate the Chicken: A Culinary Symphony of Flavors

Immerse the chicken pieces in the prepared marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

Roast the Chicken: Unveiling a Golden-Brown Delicacy

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Craft the Shawarma Sauce: A Culinary Symphony of Creamy Delights

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, white vinegar, yogurt, tahini sauce, garlic, cilantro, parsley, red onion, and tomato. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Shawarma: A Culinary Masterpiece Takes Form

Spread a generous amount of shawarma sauce on each pita bread. Top with the roasted chicken, cucumber, and tomato. Drizzle with additional shawarma sauce and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and parsley.

Savor the Delights of Chicken Shawarma: A Culinary Journey Completed

Serve the assembled shawarma with hummus and tzatziki sauce on the side. Indulge in the symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas that define this Middle Eastern delicacy.

A Culinary Journey Concludes: Reflection and Appreciation

Our chicken shawarma recipe, inspired by Saturday Kitchen, has taken us on a culinary journey to the heart of the Middle East. We’ve explored the exotic spices, vibrant flavors, and traditional techniques that make this dish so beloved. As we savor the last bites, we appreciate the rich culinary heritage that has gifted us with this delectable creation.

Information You Need to Know

• Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, they may cook more quickly than bone-in chicken pieces, so adjust the roasting time accordingly.

• Q: What if I don’t have shawarma spice mix?

A: You can make your own shawarma spice mix by combining ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, black pepper, and salt in equal proportions.

• Q: How can I make the shawarma sauce spicier?

A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the shawarma sauce for a spicy kick.

• Q: Can I substitute Greek yogurt for plain yogurt in the shawarma sauce?

A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for plain yogurt in the shawarma sauce.

• Q: What are some other toppings I can add to my chicken shawarma?

A: You can add pickled turnips, roasted eggplant, or feta cheese to your chicken shawarma for additional flavor and texture.