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Juicy Middle Eastern Chicken Shawarma with Warm Spices and Lemon Recipe

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4.3 from 58 reviews

Juicy Middle-Eastern–spiced chicken, marinated in warm spices and lemon, then roasted or grilled to perfection — perfect for wraps or bowls that are flavorful and easy to prepare.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp coriander
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create the flavorful marinade base.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours, to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to 425°F (220°C). Grill the chicken thighs or roast them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking and a beautiful char.
  4. Slice and Serve: Once cooked through and juicy, slice the chicken into strips. Serve hot in pita bread with tahini or garlic sauce for a classic shawarma experience.

Notes

  • For meal prep convenience, marinate and freeze raw chicken for up to 1 month.
  • Shawarma pairs wonderfully with rice or tabbouleh salad for a complete meal.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner / Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern