The Best Chicken Shawarma Skewers Recipe

If you’re a fan of chicken shawarma, you absolutely must try this chicken shawarma skewer recipe at your next gathering! It’s like a mini food station where everyone can make their own chicken shawarma wraps using pita bread. This easy recipe is packed with authentic shawarma flavor and features a flavorful marinade that will have everyone coming back for more! 😋 You can eat it any way you like! You can wrap it, bowl it, or even top it on your salad!

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What is Shawarma?

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food dish where marinated meat, traditionally cooked on a vertical spit, is slowly roasted at high temperatures. The outer layer of this juicy meat is thinly sliced, usually topped with a bit of lamb fat for extra flavor and juiciness. The cooking method creates a delightful hint of char that enhances the overall taste, making it a favorite meal for many. 😋

How to serve Shawarma?

Traditionally, shawarma is served wrapped in fresh pita or flatbread, topped with pickles, onions, tomatoes, and delicious sauces. For chicken shawarma, garlic sauce is a classic choice, while beef shawarma is often complemented with tahini sauce. 

You can even serve it with baba ganoush for an extra layer of flavor. Nowadays, you can enjoy shawarma as a bowl over rice or as a salad. Regardless of how you serve it, the flavors are always incredible, making it a versatile dish that appeals to many palates! You can customize your wraps by adding your favorite toppings, making it a fun experience for everyone at the table.

What is the difference between Shawarma, Gyro & Turkish Doner?

Shawarma, gyro, and Turkish doner are all delicious options featuring slowly roasted meat on a vertical rotisserie. The differences lie in the spices used, the topping sauces, and the type of bread. For instance, Greek gyros are typically served with tzatziki sauce. Each of these dishes has its own unique flavor profile, showcasing the diverse culinary traditions of their respective cultures. While they may look similar, the subtle differences in spices and preparation methods make each one a delightful experience.

Shawarma spices

Creating your own shawarma marinade at home is simple, but for convenience, you might prefer to buy a pre-made shawarma spice blend from your local grocery store or Amazon

Here in the US, I get "Ziyad Premium Chicken Shawarma Spice Blend" and I really like it! (You can find it on Amazon)

My Grandma used to make her own Shawarma seasoning mix, which consists of:

• 1 tsp each of cumin, turmeric, ground coriander, cloves, and allspice  
• ½ tsp cinnamon  
• ½ tsp nutmeg  
• 2 tbsp sumac  
• Additionally, don’t forget to add black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat! These spices come together to create a complex and aromatic seasoning that brings the dish to life. The spices not only enhance the flavor but also infuse the chicken with mouthwatering aromas during cooking.

Why this Chicken Shawarma is one of our favorite recipes

One of the best things about this easy chicken shawarma kebab recipe is that you can prepare a large batch of marinade ingredients, divide it, and freeze it in an airtight container for later use! The marinating time allows the chicken pieces to absorb all the flavors, making it perfect for a quick meal anytime. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for yourself, this recipe is bound to impress. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, as you can have delicious shawarma ready to go in no time.

Try Serving it with the "Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad"

Shawarma Tips

These are my Grandmother’s tips for the chicken Shawarma recipe

Chicken Thighs: I prefer using boneless skinless chicken thighs because they offer more flavor and mimic the shawarma we enjoyed back home. The higher fat content in thighs ensures juicy results. However, you can also use chicken breast if you prefer. For the first time making this recipe, using chicken thighs will ensure a juicy result.

Chicken Skin: Though it may sound unusual, keeping the chicken skin on helps the meat cook faster and stay moist, flavorful, and juicy. If you’re using chicken breast, consider marinating it for a bit longer to enhance its flavor.

Wooden Skewers: Using bamboo skewers is a great way to hold the chicken pieces together while they cook. Just make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. This simple step ensures that your skewers won’t char and adds to the overall presentation of your dish.

Giant Skewer:  I discovered some metal skewers that are perfect for this recipe, and they were a hit at my last party! They allow for larger portions of chicken, making it easier to serve a crowd! Giant Skewer

Fresh Garlic: Incorporating fresh garlic cloves into your marinade adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the spices beautifully. It’s a key ingredient that elevates the entire dish and adds that authentic Middle Eastern taste.

Sumac: I add 1 tablespoon of Sumac spice to this recipe & it makes a huge difference in the taste.

• Try adding 1 tablespoon of Sumac to a mixture of “sliced red onions, Parsley, with a bit of lemon & olive oil” Mix, then add it to your Shawarma Pita wrap! It takes the sandwich to another level of yumminess! 😋
• If you are not familiar with Sumac - It comes from the dried berries of the Sumac flower and it has a tangy citrusy flavor.

Vegetable Oil: Don’t forget to brush your chicken with a bit of extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil before cooking to help achieve that delicious golden color. 

Fresh Vegetables: Consider adding fresh vegetables to your wrap for added crunch and freshness. Ingredients like lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes not only enhance the flavor but also add a healthy touch to your meal. The combination of textures will make each bite satisfying and enjoyable.

Cooking Method: You can cook these chicken skewers on a gas grill, hot grill, or even in an air fryer for a healthier option. If using an oven, place the skewers on a baking sheet and cook at medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The result will be golden brown and perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Using the Air Fryer method instead of the oven:

Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the chicken in a deep container, cover it tightly with foil, and cook for 35-40 minutes until it reaches 75°C (167°F) on a meat thermometer. After draining any liquid, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips. Return the chicken to the air fryer basket and cook at 190°C (375°F) for an additional 5 minutes to achieve crispy edges.

If your air fryer has a grill option, like the Ninja Foodi 5 In 1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers. Cook them on the grill at 190°C (375°F) for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally for even charring.

Try this chicken shawarma skewer recipe at your next gathering! With the incredible flavors and the option to customize your meal, I guarantee everyone will love it! Whether enjoyed as a main course or a snack, these chicken shawarma kebabs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing the taste of the Middle East to your table. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds, and you may even find yourself making this dish again and again! Don't forget to save the recipe card
 for your next cooking session in your own kitchen! 😋

Try pairing it with this delicious Smoked Smoked Corn recipe! And for dessert try pairing it with these Yummy Almond Macaroons or this delicious Pineapple Pie!

Recipe