Chicken Shawarma

chicken_shawarma

Egyptian cuisine is renowned all over the world for its delicious flavors and unique combination of spices. The country has been inhabited for centuries, and through this long history, Egyptian cuisine has evolved to become a remarkable blend of traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors.

One dish that has become a staple in the Egyptian cuisine is the Chicken Shawarma, a dish that is made up of marinated chicken, cooked on a spit and then sliced and served with various toppings and sauces. Shawarma is one of the most popular street foods in Egypt and can be found in food stalls, restaurants, and even as take-out meals.

Egyptian Chicken Shawarma is an easy and tasty dish to make at home, and it is perfect for lunch or dinner. It is a great way to introduce your family and friends to the vibrant flavors of the Middle East.

To make the best Chicken Shawarma, you will need to start by marinating the chicken. The marinade is the most important part of the dish as it is where all the flavors come from. In Egyptian cuisine, the marinade usually consists of different herbs, spices, and yogurt.

The chicken is then skewered on a spit and roasted slowly until it is cooked through. This slow roasting process ensures that the flavors of the marinade are infused into the chicken, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.

The chicken is then removed from the spit and sliced thinly. The shawarma is usually served in a pita bread or sandwich wrap, along with various toppings such as lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onion, and pickles. The final touch is to add some garlic sauce or tahini sauce, which adds a tangy flavor and brings all the flavors together.

This dish has gained popularity all over the world, and it is easy to understand why. The Chicken Shawarma is not only delicious, but it is also a great source of protein and other essential nutrients. It is a healthy and flavorful meal to have on any occasion.

In Egypt, the Chicken Shawarma is often served with a side of crunchy fries or roasted vegetables. However, you can serve it with any side dish that you prefer.

To make Egyptian Chicken Shawarma, you do not need any specialized equipment or ingredients. All the spices and herbs used in the marinade can be found at your local grocery store or online.

Overall, Egyptian Chicken Shawarma is a perfect dish to try if you are looking to explore the world of Middle Eastern cuisine. It provides a delicious and satisfying taste experience that is unforgettable. Once you have tried it, you will be hooked on the delicious flavors of this amazing dish!

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Pita bread, for serving
  • Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion, for serving
  • Tahini sauce, for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
  2. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  4. Transfer the chicken and marinade to a baking sheet and spread the chicken evenly.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and browned on the outside.
  6. Let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
  7. Warm the pita bread in the oven or on a skillet until slightly crispy.
  8. Assemble the shawarma by stuffing the pita with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onion, and sliced chicken.
  9. Drizzle with tahini sauce and serve. Enjoy!