Go Back
Jamie Oliver Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Jamie Oliver Chicken Shawarma Recipe

John
I love making the Jamie Oliver Chicken Shawarma Recipe at home on busy weeknights. This Jamie Oliver Chicken Shawarma Recipe brings amazing street food flavors right into your kitchen.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 600 g Chicken thighs boneless and skinless.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika.
  • $1/2$ teaspoon Ground cinnamon.
  • 2 cloves Garlic crushed or finely minced.
  • 1 Lemon juiced.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste.
  • 4 Pita breads or large flatbreads.
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt for serving.
  • Fresh parsley and sliced red onion for garnish.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken Thighs

  • Place the chicken thighs on a clean cutting board. Trim away any excess fat if you prefer. Cut the chicken into thin, even strips so they cook quickly. Smaller pieces absorb the spicy marinade much better than thick ones.

Make the Spicy Marinade

  • In a large bowl, whisk the olive oil and lemon juice together. Add the cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and crushed garlic. Whisk until the spices are well combined. This mixture smells absolutely incredible and fresh in your kitchen.

Coat the Chicken Well

  • Add the chicken strips into the spiced oil mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to coat every piece. Let the chicken sit for at least ten minutes. This allows the lemon and spices to soak into the meat.

Heat the Frying Pan

  • Place a large frying pan over medium-high heat on your stove. You do not need much extra oil if the pan is non-stick. Wait until the pan is hot before adding the meat. A hot pan creates a char.

Cook Until Golden Brown

  • Add the chicken strips to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them often. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through. Ensure there is no pink meat left inside.

Warm Your Flatbreads

  • While the chicken cooks, warm your pita breads in the oven. You can also toast them directly over a gas flame for smoke. Keep them soft so they are easy to wrap. Do not overcook or burn them.

Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

  • Spread a large spoonful of Greek yogurt over each warm bread. Pile the juicy cooked chicken in the center. Add some sliced red onions and fresh parsley on top. This creates a beautiful and colorful meal easily.

Final Seasoning and Serve

  • Squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the hot meat. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper if you like. Roll up the bread tightly or serve it open. Eat it while it is hot for the best taste

Notes

Use Thighs: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture.
  • Marinate Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken for two hours.
    Add Heat: Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like spicy food.
  • Veggie Option: Use halloumi cheese or chickpeas instead of chicken for a meal.
    Crunch Factor: Add pickled cucumbers or red cabbage for an extra crunch.
Keyword Jamie Oliver Chicken Shawarma Recipe