Discover The Easy Way To Make Traditional Chicken Shawarma – Recipe Included!

Embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the art of making traditional chicken shawarma, a delectable Middle Eastern delicacy that tantalizes taste buds worldwide. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential knowledge and techniques to recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup tahini sauce (recipe below)
• 1/4 cup hummus (recipe below)
• Pita bread, for serving

Tahini Sauce

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Hummus

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the bowl and massage the marinade into the meat.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken on a roasting rack set over a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing it.

Prepare the Vegetables

1. Slice the onion and bell pepper into thin strips.
2. Chop the parsley and cilantro.

Assemble the Shawarma

1. Spread a layer of hummus on the bottom of a pita bread.
2. Top with the sliced chicken, onions, bell peppers, parsley, and cilantro.
3. Drizzle with tahini sauce.
4. Fold the pita bread in half or roll it up.

Tips

• For a more authentic flavor, use a charcoal grill to cook the chicken.
• If you don’t have time to marinate the chicken, you can skip this step and cook it immediately.
• To make the shawarma ahead of time, cook the chicken and vegetables and assemble the shawarma just before serving.
• Serve the shawarma with your favorite sides, such as tabbouleh, fattoush, or fries.

Variations

• Try using different types of meat, such as lamb, beef, or turkey.
• Add other vegetables to your shawarma, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives.
• Experiment with different sauces, such as garlic sauce or spicy harissa.

Benefits of Chicken Shawarma

• Chicken shawarma is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• It is a relatively low-fat dish.
• It is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or a snack.

Summary

Congratulations! You have now mastered the art of making traditional chicken shawarma. This delectable dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or oven, and embark on this culinary adventure. Bon appétit!

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. What is the best cut of chicken to use for shawarma?

• The best cut of chicken to use for shawarma is a whole chicken, as it will give you the most meat. However, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.

2. Can I use other types of meat for shawarma?

• Yes, you can use other types of meat for shawarma, such as lamb, beef, or turkey.

3. What is the best way to cook the chicken for shawarma?

• The best way to cook the chicken for shawarma is on a charcoal grill. However, you can also cook it in the oven or on a stovetop grill pan.

4. What are some good sides to serve with shawarma?

• Some good sides to serve with shawarma include tabbouleh, fattoush, fries, or hummus.

5. How can I make shawarma ahead of time?

• To make shawarma ahead of time, cook the chicken and vegetables and assemble the shawarma just before serving.