Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

The Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Turkish street food right to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal. Its unique spice blend and creamy garlic yogurt sauce create a flavor explosion that will impress everyone at your table. Plus, it pairs beautifully with couscous, rice pilaf, or stuffed into pita bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have this flavorful dish ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The shawarma spices infuse the chicken with a rich taste that’s both savory and slightly spicy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over couscous, in a wrap, or alongside fresh veggies for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits well into many healthy eating plans.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and garnishes make it a stunning centerpiece on any dining table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Small bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Ideal for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect grill marks on your chicken.
• Ziploc bag: Great for marinating the chicken evenly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly to create your marinade.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the cooked chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 pound 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Juice from 1 medium lemon
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon curry powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• 7-ounce container 2% Greek yogurt (I like Fage)
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
• 1/8 tsp kosher salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts, one at a time, in a Ziploc bag.
2. Pound each breast to an even thickness of about ½-inch thick, being careful not to puncture the bag.
3. Set aside the pounded chicken breasts in the bag.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. Whisk until combined.
2. Add minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper; whisk again.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken.
2. Massage it gently to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for best flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

1. In a small bowl (or right in its container), combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Stir well to combine and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Grill each piece of marinated chicken for about 3 minutes or until it no longer sticks to the grill.
3. Turn each piece over and grill for another 3–4 minutes until cooked through.
4. Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain.

Step 6: Serve

Top each sliced breast with about 2 tablespoons of garlic yogurt sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce!

How to Serve Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Serving Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes.

Over Couscous

• Fluff the couscous and serve the sliced chicken on top for a hearty meal. Add extra yogurt sauce for creaminess.

In a Pita

• Stuff warm pita bread with sliced chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce for a delicious handheld meal.

With Rice Pilaf

• Serve the chicken alongside fragrant rice pilaf, which complements the spices in the shawarma beautifully.

On a Salad

• Create a vibrant salad base with greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Top it off with the grilled chicken and yogurt sauce for freshness.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with seasonal grilled vegetables for a colorful and healthy plate.

As Meal Prep Bowls

• Divide the chicken among meal prep containers with grains and vegetables for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

To make your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and ensure perfect results every time.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors, making each bite more flavorful.
• Pound Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are an even thickness helps them cook uniformly on the grill.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill prevents sticking and gives your chicken beautiful grill marks.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak spice amounts according to your taste preference; add more heat if you like it spicy!
• Garnish Creatively: Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can brighten up your dish visually and add extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken can enhance its flavors. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and bulgur wheat that adds freshness.
2. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip served with pita chips or veggies provides a satisfying contrast to grilled chicken.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the spices in the shawarma beautifully.
4. Garlic Naan Bread: Soft bread brushed with garlic butter offers a rich side that pairs well with yogurt sauce.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice balances out the spiciness of the chicken.
6. Grilled Zucchini Skewers: Lightly seasoned zucchini skewers add a smoky flavor that enhances your main dish.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs elevates this dish for a nutritious side option.
8. Fattoush Salad: This vibrant salad combines crunchy vegetables and toasted pita chips tossed in tangy dressing, perfect alongside grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Not pounding the chicken evenly – Failing to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness can result in uneven cooking. Make sure each piece is about ½-inch thick for consistent grilling.
• Skipping the marination time – Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; letting it marinate overnight yields even better results.
• Using low-quality spices – Fresh, high-quality spices are crucial for authentic flavor. Avoid old or low-quality spices that might dull the taste of your dish.
• Overcooking the chicken – Overcooked chicken can become dry. Grill it just until no longer pink in the center and use a meat thermometer if necessary to check doneness.
• Neglecting the resting period – Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes helps retain juices. Skipping this step can lead to dry meat when sliced.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add sliced chicken. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delicious twist on traditional shawarma made by marinating grilled chicken in aromatic spices and serving it with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce.

How long does it take to prepare Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

The total time includes around 10 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes of cooking, but marinating can take anywhere from 1 hour to overnight depending on your schedule.

Can I customize the spices in my Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Adding more heat or experimenting with different herbs can create a unique flavor profile.

What should I serve with Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with couscous, rice pilaf, or wrapped in pita bread alongside fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various meals. Whether served over grains or tucked into pita bread, it offers a delightful dining experience. Don’t hesitate to customize your spice blend or side dishes for a personal touch!

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Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

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Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delectable dish that captures the essence of Turkish street food right in your home kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe features marinated chicken infused with aromatic shawarma spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this dish boasts vibrant flavors that will impress your guests. Serve it alongside couscous, stuffed in pita bread, or atop a fresh salad for a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• Shawarma spice blend (cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, curry powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes)
• 7 ounces Greek yogurt (2%)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and place in a Ziploc bag.
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, spices, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Pour marinade over chicken in the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
4. Mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt; refrigerate.
5. Grill marinated chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through.
6. Slice chicken and serve topped with garlic yogurt sauce and chopped parsley.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Turkish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Marinate overnight for enhanced flavor. Adjust spices according to personal taste preferences. Rest grilled chicken before slicing to keep it juicy.