Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful twist on traditional Turkish street food. This easy recipe brings bold flavors to your grill, making it perfect for casual dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep. The tender chicken, marinated in aromatic spices, paired with creamy garlic yogurt sauce creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon gives this dish a deliciously unique taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over couscous, rice pilaf, or in pita bread for endless meal possibilities.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and lower in carbs, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner or lunch option.

Tools and Preparation

To make Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Ziploc bag
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without making a mess.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the perfect char and smoky flavor essential for grilled dishes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

For the Chicken

• 1 pound 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 teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts in a Ziploc bag. Pound each breast to an even thickness of about ½-inch thick while being careful not to puncture the bag.
2. Return the pounded chicken breasts back into the bag and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

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

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

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

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Grill each piece of marinated chicken for approximately 3 minutes on one side or until they release easily from the grill.
3. Flip them over and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
4. Once done, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Top each sliced breast with about 2 tablespoons of garlic yogurt sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce over couscous or as a filling in pita bread!

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

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it on a plate or wrapped up, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Over Couscous

• Fluffy couscous is a fantastic base for this chicken. The grains soak up the garlic yogurt sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying dish.

In a Pita Wrap

• Stuff the grilled chicken into warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables. This makes for an easy and delicious handheld meal.

With Rice Pilaf

• Pair the chicken with aromatic rice pilaf for a filling and flavorful combination. The spices in the rice complement the shawarma seasoning perfectly.

On a Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a fresh salad. Add cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce to create a refreshing meal.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a Mediterranean platter by serving the chicken alongside hummus, olives, and pita chips for sharing at gatherings.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Enjoy your chicken with a side of roasted vegetables. The natural sweetness of roasted veggies pairs well with the savory flavors of the shawarma spices.

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

To achieve juicy and flavorful Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken, follow these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and spices when making your marinade. This enhances flavor significantly.
• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. This allows the spices to penetrate better.
• Pound Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This prevents sticking and promotes nice grill marks.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling helps retain its juices.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences. Experimenting can lead to your perfect blend!

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

This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its unique spices. Here are some top choices:

1. Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice that adds brightness to your plate.
2. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that works great as a spread or alongside pita chips for dipping.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned zucchini slices grilled until tender make for a delightful veggie side.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs add heartiness to your meal.
5. Fattoush Salad: A crunchy salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, and crispy pita chips dressed in tangy dressing.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked in broth offers a comforting base that pairs well with the chicken’s spices.
7. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A healthy option packed with vegetables and feta cheese that complements the dish nicely.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Add some tangy pickled vegetables on the side for an extra layer of flavor contrast!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.

• Using thick chicken breasts: Thick pieces of chicken take longer to cook and may not marinate evenly. Always pound the chicken to an even thickness for the best results.
• Skipping the marination time: Marinating is essential for flavor. Avoid cooking the chicken immediately. Aim for at least one hour in the marinade for optimal taste.
• Not preheating the grill: A hot grill is crucial for achieving those perfect grill marks and preventing sticking. Preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes before placing the chicken on it.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can easily become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
• Neglecting to rest the chicken: Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist. Let it rest for at least five minutes after grilling before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the garlic yogurt sauce in a separate container, where it can also last up to 3 days.

Freezing Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, wrap each piece individually before placing it in a larger bag.
• The garlic yogurt sauce can also be frozen but may change in texture when thawed.

Reheating Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the chicken on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist while heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken is a flavorful grilled dish inspired by traditional Turkish street food, seasoned with aromatic spices and served with garlic yogurt sauce.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences, adding more heat or using different herbs that you enjoy.

How do I serve Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

You can serve it over couscous or rice pilaf, on pita bread, or alongside fresh salads and vegetables for a complete meal.

What are some side dishes that go well with Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken?

Consider pairing it with tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or hummus for a Mediterranean feast.

Final Thoughts

Shawarma-Spiced Grilled Chicken with Garlic Yogurt Sauce offers an enticing blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. Its versatility allows you to serve it in numerous ways—whether on its own, wrapped in pita bread, or atop savory grains. Don’t hesitate to personalize this recipe with your favorite spices and sides! Enjoy this delicious dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.