Name: Crispy Viral Chicken Shawarma
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 kg Chicken Breast (Can also use chicken thighs for more flavor.); 3 tbsp Full-Fat Yogurt (Greek yogurt works as a substitute.); 1 tbsp Tomato Paste (Adds depth of flavor; can be skipped.); 1 tsp Coriander Powder; 1 tsp Cumin Powder; 1 tsp Garam Masala (Can be substituted with a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.); 1 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Use fresh garlic if available, about 2-3 cloves.); 3 tsp Salt (Adjust per taste.); 1 tsp Sumac (Lemon juice can be a substitute.); 1/2 tsp Cinnamon Powder (Balances out the spices.); 1/2 tsp Chaat Masala (Can be skipped if unavailable.); 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Fresh is preferred, bottled can work.); 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Use a neutral-flavored oil or olive oil.); 6 tbsp Greek Yogurt; 3 tbsp Mayonnaise (Can be omitted for a lighter sauce.); 2 tsp Olive Oil; 1 clove Garlic (crushed); 1 tbsp Lemon Juice; Handful Fresh Dill (chopped); as needed Pita Bread (Can also use lavash or tortillas.); as needed Pickles; as needed Fries (Essential for a complete shawarma experience.)

This incredibly delicious Crispy Viral Chicken Shawarma comes together in about 30 minutes all in one pan for a quick and easy dinner that your family will love! Switch up the toppings to suit your taste or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ meal to get rid of leftovers and odds and ends. Honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels special but comes together with minimal effort.

Let me walk you through this tasty weeknight recipe that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters in your house!

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need for Chicken Shawarma

1 kg Chicken Breast
3 tbsp Full-Fat Yogurt
1 tbsp Tomato Paste
Spices: 1 tsp Each of Coriander Powder, Cumin Powder, Garam Masala, and Paprika
1 tsp Garlic Powder
3 tsp Salt
1 tsp Sumac
1/2 tsp Cinnamon Powder
1/2 tsp Chaat Masala
1 tbsp Lemon Juice
3 tbsp Vegetable Oil

Sauce Ingredients: 6 tbsp Greek Yogurt, 3 tbsp Mayonnaise, 2 tsp Olive Oil, 1 clove Garlic (crushed), 1 tbsp Lemon Juice, Handful of Fresh Dill (chopped)

Pita Bread, Pickles, and Fries

How to Make This Crispy Viral Chicken Shawarma

Marinate the Chicken : Start by adding your thinly sliced chicken breast to a large bowl. Mix in the yogurt, tomato paste, and all those fabulous spices: coriander, cumin, garam masala, paprika, garlic powder, salt, sumac, cinnamon, chaat masala, lemon juice, and vegetable oil. Use your hands (yes, I said hands!) or tongs to thoroughly coat the chicken, making sure every strip is covered in that marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got time, pop it in the fridge overnight for even deeper flavor!
Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This is the perfect time to line a sheet pan with foil or to lightly oil it, whatever floats your boat!
Bake the Chicken : Spread those marinated chicken strips evenly across the tray, keeping them in a single layer so they crisp up instead of steam. Bake for 20 minutes, then switch to broil for an additional 5 minutes to get that slightly charred, shawarma-style finish. Wow, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will drive everyone wild!
Make the Garlic Dill Sauce : While the chicken is baking, mix the Greek yogurt, mayo, olive oil, crushed garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until needed.
Prepare the Shawarma Coating : In another small bowl, whisk together oil, pomegranate molasses, sumac, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and tomato paste. This mixture will create that sought-after crispy crust on the outside of your shawarma.
Assemble the Shawarma : Take a fresh pita and carefully split it into two thin layers (stacking them makes it sturdier!). Spread a generous amount of that amazing garlic dill sauce down the center, add in some sliced pickles, and a handful of those hot, baked chicken strips. Drizzle lightly with pomegranate molasses for that sweet touch
Toast the Wrap : Roll it tightly, folding the sides inward so nothing spills out. Now, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, place the rolled shawarma seam-side down, and brush the top and sides with that coating mixture. Allow some drizzles to fall into the pan, it’ll help create a glorious golden crust. Gently move the wrap back and forth to spread the oil, toasting each side for about 20-30 seconds until it’s perfectly crispy.
Serve : Once golden and crunchy, remove it to a paper towel-lined board to lightly blot off excess oil. Slice it in half or serve it whole, either way, pair it with some extra fries, more yogurt sauce, and fresh pickles on the side. And trust me, it’s best enjoyed hot while that wrap has that glorious crunch!

Why I Love This Recipe

This is my go-to recipe when I want something flavorful yet easy, and let’s be real, homemade comfort food never gets old! I’m a real sucker for that crispy outside and juicy chicken inside combo, it’s literally an explosion of flavor in your mouth. The best part is that you can customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand! Trust me, you’ll be making this every week.

If you loved this Crispy Viral Chicken Shawarma, be sure to check out my Chicken Scarpariello, my Jamaican Curry Chicken, or my Crispy Chicken Caprese!

Tips for Success: Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. No one wants to spend ages in the kitchen on a Tuesday, right?

Crowd-Pleaser

Kids and adults alike will love this one! Tons of flavor will keep them coming back for seconds, making it a sure-hit with the family. It’s definitely a money-saver, too!

Customizable

Don’t like pickles? Use sliced cucumbers. Want extra heat? Toss in some jalapeños. The ingredients are super flexible, so you can use whatever your family prefers or what’s lurking in your fridge!

Make-Ahead Friendly

You can easily marinate the chicken the night before. Just pull it out when you’re ready to cook, easy-peasy!

Comfort Food

Loaded with spices and served warm, this chicken shawarma wraps you in a big, cozy hug of flavor. It’s really all about that warm, satisfying feeling that comes from a great home-cooked meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

What to Serve With This

This crispy chicken shawarma is excellent on its own or paired with sides like fries, a light salad, or even roasted veggies! If you’re feeling festive, make an extra batch of that yogurt sauce for dipping.

Storage

Leftover shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s totally delicious cold, too!

Reheating Instructions

Reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F to keep it crispy, or pop it in the microwave if you’re in a rush.

Is It Freezer Friendly?

Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken, just make sure to separate it into portions. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy!

With this recipe, you’ve got everything you need for a warm, satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Each bite is packed with incredible flavor. Happy cooking! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!