Halal Guys Chicken Shawarma Recipe

This chicken shawarma from Halal Guys is all about the marinade!

Letting the chicken soak up those warm spices and tangy yogurt overnight makes all the difference.

A good balance of garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric is key to getting that deep, rich seasoning just right.

A cast iron pan works well if you don’t have a grill, but make sure the pan is really hot before adding the chicken.

The white sauce is just as important as the chicken, and a little extra lemon juice brings out the best in it.

I always serve this with soft pita and a simple salad to keep the focus on the chicken itself!

How to Make Halal Guys Chicken Shawarma

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken Thighs
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 2 tsp Ground Cumin
• 2 tsp Ground Coriander
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Turmeric
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 cup Long Grain Rice
• 1/4 cup Butter
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1/4 cup Yogurt
• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.

Mix well.

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade.

Mix to coat thoroughly.

Marinate in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight for optimal flavor.

Step 2:

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the marinated chicken thighs.

Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.

Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.

Step 3:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add rice and sauté for about 2 minutes until lightly toasted.

Pour in the chicken broth.

Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and cover.

Simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and the liquid absorbed.

Step 4:

In a bowl, mix together yogurt, mayonnaise, and vinegar.

Whisk until smooth to make the white sauce.

Keep aside for serving.

Step 5:

Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.

Serve it over the cooked rice with the white sauce drizzled on top.

Add additional toppings or sauces as desired.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinating Time

The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be, so don’t rush this step.

If you’re in a hurry, aim for at least four hours of marination.

Rice Cooking

To achieve the perfect fluffy rice, resist the urge to lift the lid too much.

Keeping the lid closed helps maintain the steam needed to fully cook the rice.

Sauce Variation

Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce to your white sauce if you prefer a bit of heat with your meal.

It’s a simple way to customize and invigorate the flavor.

What to Serve with Halal Guys Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Fresh and Zesty Tabbouleh

You can never go wrong with the vibrant, fresh taste of tabbouleh.

A mix of parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur, this salad bursts with zesty flavors.

The citrusy dressing adds a refreshing contrast that pairs perfectly with the savory shawarma spices.

Classic Hummus

Smooth and creamy hummus is a must.

Made with chickpeas, tahini, and a touch of lemon, it balances the rich seasoning of the chicken.

Serve it as a dip or spread it inside your shawarma wrap for extra flavor.

Cool and Creamy Tzatziki

Tzatziki, that creamy yogurt dill sauce, is perfect for adding a cooling element.

This sauce not only complements the spices but also refreshes your palate.

Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip

Try muhammara, a delicious blend of roasted red peppers and walnuts.

This dip offers a smoky, nutty flavor that surprisingly complements the shawarma.

Spicy Pickled Vegetables

Spicy pickled vegetables add an exciting tangy kick.

Carrots, cauliflower, and radishes marinated in vinegar and spices offer a crunchy texture.

They are perfect for cutting through the richness of the shawarma, enhancing every bite.

Cucumber and Feta Salad

Cucumber and feta salad is an unusual yet tasty companion.

The crispiness of cucumber mixed with the saltiness of feta cheese is refreshing.

Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some oregano for a Mediterranean taste.

Variations and Substitutions

Marination Tweaks

When making chicken shawarma, you can swap traditional spices like cumin and coriander with your favorite spice blends.

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cinnamon to your marination for an unexpected warmth that pairs beautifully with the garlic sauce.

Protein Alternatives

If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can substitute lamb or beef.

For a vegetarian option, swap the meat with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or eggplant roasted to perfection.

Sauce Variations

You can switch the classic garlic or yogurt sauce with a spicy harissa or a tangy tahini sauce for a flavor twist.

Experiment with different herbs like fresh mint or dill in your sauces to discover new and interesting tastes.

Creative Serving Styles

Try serving your shawarma on a bed of salad greens for a lighter, fresh take on the classic wrap.

Consider using naan or pita for a slightly different texture to your shawarma wrap, bringing a new feel to your dish.

How to Store Leftover Halal Guys Chicken Shawarma

When you’ve got leftover Halal Guys chicken shawarma, storing it correctly is key to maintaining its flavor and texture.

Make sure you separate the components like chicken, rice, and sauces before storing them in the fridge.

Wrap the chicken separately or use airtight containers to keep the flavors locked in.

Don’t forget separate containers work best for rice, sauces, and any vegetables you have left over.

Sharing From My Kitchen

I always suggest waiting until the food cools to room temperature before sealing it in the refrigerator.

Keeping it tightly covered helps prevent drying out.

Top Tip for Freshness

Label your containers with dates to remind you when it’s time to use them.

It’s best to consume these leftovers within three days to enjoy maximum flavor without compromising quality.

Featured Insight

Opt for glass containers for storage, which can help prevent excess moisture and keep each dish component just right.

If you’re using plastic, select BPA-free options to make storage safe for everyone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Marinating Long Enough

You might be tempted to rush the marinating process, but patience is key for flavor-packed chicken shawarma!

Marinating the chicken overnight makes a world of difference in letting those spices penetrate.

Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken

Don’t grab boneless chicken breasts if you’re aiming for juicy and tender shawarma.

I always recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and perfect for this dish.

Overcooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken on high heat can lead to a dry and less flavorful outcome.

Grill the chicken on medium-high heat, turning occasionally, to ensure it remains moist and succulent.

Make sure to monitor it closely as it cooks.