Description
How to make tender chicken shawarma kebab with warm Middle Eastern spices and yogurt marinade that brings restaurant flavors home.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Spice Blend
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Mix Marinade: Whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all spices in a large bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Add chicken pieces to marinade and toss to coat completely. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking throughout.
- Heat Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Oil the grates well to prevent sticking and ensure beautiful grill marks.
- Cook Kebabs: Grill chicken shawarma kebabs for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through completely.
- Rest and Serve: Let kebabs rest for 2-3 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges alongside.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes but up to 24 hours for best flavor development.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
- Leftover kebabs store in refrigerator for up to 3 days in airtight containers.
- Serve immediately with warm pita bread and cooling yogurt sauce for authentic experience.
- Double the spice blend recipe and store extra for quick future marinades.
Allergy Information: Dairy
Nutrition
- Calories: 285 calories
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 34g