Craving a taste of Lebanon? Discover the ultimate Lebanese chicken shawarma with Mangoes and Palm Trees! This authentic Middle Eastern recipe features tender, marinated chicken with rich spices, ready in 5 simple steps. Perfect for dinners or gatherings, this Lebanese chicken shawarma brings Beirut’s vibrant flavors to your table with a tropical twist.
What Is Lebanese Chicken Shawarma?
Lebanese chicken shawarma is a flavorful dish of marinated chicken cooked on a spit, served with pita, vegetables, and sauces. Adapted for home kitchens, it’s a Middle Eastern favorite. Pair it with our Middle Eastern Chicken Recipes for more inspiration.
History and Origin
Rooted in the Middle East, "shawarma" (from Turkish "çevirme," meaning "turning") uses a rotisserie method. The Lebanese version blends yogurt, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika.
Popularity Around the World
Its health benefits, versatility, and accessibility make shawarma a global hit, from street vendors to restaurants, customizable as wraps, bowls, or plates.
Ingredients of Chicken Shawarma
Spices and Seasonings
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground cumin | 1 tbsp |
| Ground coriander | 1 tbsp |
| Ground paprika | 2 tsp |
| Ground turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground cloves | 1/4 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
Selecting the Right Chicken
Use 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, cut into thin strips.
| Chicken Part | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Thighs | Flavorful, juicy, ideal for grilling |
| Breasts | Lean, healthier option |
Preparing the Lebanese Chicken Marinade
Mixing the Spices
Combine cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, and salt in a bowl. See Serious Eats for spice tips.
Marinating Techniques
Mix spices with 1 cup yogurt, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, and 4 minced garlic cloves. Coat chicken strips, cover, and refrigerate for 4-24 hours.
Marinating the Chicken
Duration of Marination
Marinate for 12-24 hours for deep flavor, or at least 4 hours if time-constrained.
Tips for Best Results
Use fresh spices, full-fat yogurt, and turn chicken halfway to ensure even coating. Keep refrigerated.
Cooking Methods
Grilling vs. Roasting
Grill on medium-high for 5-7 minutes per side for smoky flavor, or roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway.
Using a Shawarma Machine
A rotisserie machine ensures even cooking and crispy edges, ideal for authentic results but optional for home cooks.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Accompaniments
Serve with pita bread, garlic sauce, pickles, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tabbouleh for authenticity.
Modern Twists
Try shawarma bowls with quinoa, tacos, salads with feta, or pizza with shawarma toppings, plus a tropical mango-garlic sauce.
Making Garlic Sauce
Ingredients Needed
- Garlic - 4 cloves
- Vegetable oil - 1 cup
- Lemon juice - 1/4 cup
- Egg white - 1
- Salt - 1/2 tsp
Step-by-Step Preparation
Blend garlic, egg white, and salt until smooth. Slowly add oil and lemon juice, blending until thick and creamy.
Preparing the Flatbread
Choosing the Right Bread
Use pita for sturdiness, lavash for flexibility, or tortillas for a modern twist.
Homemade Flatbread Recipe
Mix 2 cups flour, 3/4 cup warm water, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp yeast. Knead, let rise 1 hour, roll into circles, and cook 2 minutes per side on a hot pan.
Assembling the Shawarma
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs or breasts | 2 lbs |
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Pita or flatbread | 4-6 pieces |
| Tomatoes, sliced | 1 cup |
| Cucumbers, sliced | 1 cup |
| Pickles | 1/2 cup |
| Lettuce, shredded | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices for 4-24 hours.
- Grill or roast chicken until 165°F (75°C), then slice thinly.
- Warm pita, spread with garlic sauce, and layer with chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, and lettuce.
- Fold sides inward, roll tightly from the bottom, and wrap in parchment or foil.
- Serve with tabbouleh, hummus, or a tropical mango-garlic sauce.
Layering Techniques
Spread garlic sauce on warm pita, add chicken, then evenly layer vegetables for balanced flavors.
Folding and Wrapping
Fold sides over filling, roll tightly from the bottom, and secure with parchment or foil.
Side Dishes for Lebanese Chicken Shawarma
Popular Lebanese Salads
Serve with tabbouleh, fattoush, or cucumber-yogurt salad for freshness. See Healthline for salad benefits.
Complementary Dips
Pair with hummus, toum (garlic sauce), or baba ghanoush for creamy, smoky flavors.
How to Store Leftover Shawarma?
Proper Storage Methods
Store chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers, refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for 1 month, wrapped tightly.
Reheating Tips
Microwave chicken for 1-2 minutes with a damp towel, or oven-reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered, until 165°F (75°C).
Chicken Shawarma Nutrition Information
Calorie Count
A serving (with pita and sauce) is ~400-500 calories, lower with chicken breast or lighter sauces.
Health Benefits
High in protein, with anti-inflammatory spices, heart-healthy olive oil, and fiber from vegetables.
Cultural Significance
Role in Lebanese Cuisine
A street food staple, shawarma reflects Lebanon’s spice mastery and hospitality.
Festivals and Celebrations
Essential at gatherings, its aroma unites families and friends in festive joy.
Final Thoughts
This ultimate Lebanese chicken shawarma recipe delivers authentic flavors with a tropical mango-garlic sauce twist, perfect for any meal.
Personal Anecdotes
My first shawarma in a Beirut market was unforgettable—spicy, creamy, and vibrant!
Encouragement to Experiment
Tweak spices, try tofu, or add mango sauce to make this recipe your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Needed for Lebanese Chicken Shawarma?
Chicken, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, spices (cumin, coriander, paprika).
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Shawarma?
Mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, oil, spices; marinate chicken for 4-24 hours.
Can I Grill the Shawarma Instead of Roasting?
Yes, grill for smoky flavor, ensuring 165°F (75°C).
What Spices Are Essential for Shawarma?
Cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Shawarma?
15-20 minutes grilling or 30-40 minutes roasting.
What Can I Serve with Lebanese Shawarma?
Pita, garlic sauce, pickles, tabbouleh, hummus.
Can I Make Shawarma in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4-6 hours until tender.
How Do I Store Leftover Shawarma?
Refrigerate in airtight containers for 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
