Chicken Shawarma Recipe
The Chicken Shawarma is a delectable Middle Eastern dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its vibrant spices and fresh ingredients. This recipe not only guides you through making perfectly spiced chicken but also teaches you how to craft homemade pita bread and refreshing pickled vegetables, all wrapped up in a delightful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a Sunday lunch or any gathering, this dish can be served with classic dips like hummus and tzatziki, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (cut into thin strips) | 1 |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 2 tablespoons |
| Red chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
Pita Bread
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole wheat flour | 2 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 1 tablespoon |
| Milk (lukewarm) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
Pickled Vegetables
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber (cut into julienne) | 1 |
| Carrot (Gajjar, cut into julienne) | 1 |
| Tomato (pulp removed and julienned) | 1 |
| Chili vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
Dips
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Homemade hummus | 1 cup |
| Tzatziki | 1 cup |
For Assembly
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Servings: 2
Cuisine
- Type: Middle Eastern
- Course: Main Course
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pita Bread
- In a medium bowl, combine the active dry yeast and sugar.
- Heat the milk until it is lukewarm, then pour it over the yeast-sugar mixture. Allow it to sit until bubbles form on the surface, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Gradually add the whole wheat flour and salt to the mixture, mixing to form a soft dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a large bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, red chili powder, black pepper, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, and olive oil. Mix well to form a paste.
- Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 3: Prepare the Pickled Vegetables
- In a separate bowl, combine the julienned cucumber, carrot, and tomato.
- Add the chili vinegar, salt, and sugar, and mix well. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Prepare the Dips
- If you don’t have store-bought dips, prepare homemade tzatziki and hummus. These can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
Step 5: Cook the Pita Bread
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a flat, round shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat a flat skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each pita for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until you see small brown spots and the bread puffs up. Keep the cooked pita bread covered with a clean towel to stay warm.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan, ensuring the pieces do not overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and has a nice char, about 20 minutes.
Step 7: Assemble the Chicken Shawarma
- Take a square piece of parchment paper and place one cooked pita bread on it.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of hummus and 1 tablespoon of tzatziki on the pita.
- Add a handful of the pickled vegetables in the center, followed by a generous portion of the cooked chicken and chopped onion.
- Roll the pita tightly around the fillings, using the parchment paper to help keep it together. Tuck in the ends for easy handling if desired.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your Chicken Shawarma warm with any remaining hummus and tzatziki on the side, along with a fresh summer lettuce salad to make a complete meal that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the hearty satisfaction of this Middle Eastern classic!
