Chicken shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is made with thinly sliced chicken, vegetables, and spices that are wrapped in pita bread. It is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or a snack.
This recipe is unique because it adds a spicy twist to the traditional dish. The chicken is marinated in a blend of cayenne pepper, cumin, and chili powder to give it a bold and flavorful kick.
Ingredients:
1 (1.5-pound) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into thin strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup chopped cucumber
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1/4 cup tahini sauce
1/4 cup yogurt
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup hot sauce, optional
Pita bread, for serving
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Toss to coat.
Spread chicken mixture in a single layer in a baking dish.
Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
While chicken is cooking, combine onion, tomato, cucumber, and parsley in a small bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini sauce, yogurt, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if using).
To assemble shawarma, spread tahini sauce on pita bread. Top with chicken, vegetables, and parsley.
Serve immediately.
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Shawarma with a Spicy Twist:
Use boneless, skinless chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Cut the chicken into thin strips so that it cooks evenly.
Don't overcook the chicken, or it will dry out.
Use your favorite vegetables in the shawarma. Some popular options include lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onion, and parsley.
Experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Use a good quality pita bread for the best results.
Variations:
For a lamb shawarma, substitute lamb for the chicken.
For a vegetarian shawarma, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
For a vegan shawarma, substitute plant-based meat for the chicken.
Enjoy!
This recipe is a great starting point for making the perfect chicken shawarma with a spicy twist. With a little practice, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic dish that everyone will love.