Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma

Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of a street-side classic with this simple oven-baked Chicken Shawarma, perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes plus marinating
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes plus marinating
  • Servings: 4-6 servings

Full Ingredient List

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon ground cayenne
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup olive oil

Chicken Marinade

Tools and Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • mixing bowl
  • oven

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
2 pounds chicken thighs boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 cloves garlic minced
2 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground cayenne
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons black pepper freshly ground
1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic, spices (coriander, cumin, cardamom, cayenne, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon), salt, and black pepper. (Tips: Ensure spices are well mixed for even flavor distribution.)
  2. Step 2: Add lemon juice and olive oil to the spice mixture to form a marinade. (Tips: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.)
  3. Step 3: Place the chicken thighs in the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor. (Tips: The longer the marinating time, the more intense the flavor.)
  4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). (Tips: Use an oven thermometer for precise temperature control.)
  5. Step 5: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet. (Tips: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper can make clean-up easier.)
  6. Step 6: Roast in the oven for about 35 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges. (Tips: Check internal temperature for doneness; it should register at least 165°F (75°C).)

Additional Information

Notes: Serve with pita, tahini, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, parsley, feta, fried eggplant, hummus, harissa, or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Tags

Middle Eastern Chicken Dinner