Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma is a globally loved dish, famous for its rich and aromatic spices. Originating from the Middle East, Shawarma traditionally involves marinating chicken (or lamb) in a flavorful mix of spices and herbs, then cooking it on a vertical rotisserie. The result is crispy, juicy, and incredibly tender meat that’s packed with flavors. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you can recreate this delicious, crispy chicken Shawarma recipe without the need for a rotisserie, while keeping the process quick and healthy.

The beauty of making Shawarma in an air fryer is its ability to crisp up the chicken with minimal oil, making it a lighter alternative to the deep-fried versions. Air frying is not only a healthier way to prepare your chicken, but it also allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, creating that distinctive Shawarma flavor we all love. The result is tender chicken with a crispy exterior, perfect for serving in pita wraps, on salads, or alongside rice for a wholesome meal.

Chicken Shawarma

This Chicken Shawarma recipe is a healthier twist on a Middle Eastern classic, utilizing the air fryer to achieve the perfect combination of crispy skin and tender meat without deep frying. The chicken is marinated in a blend of garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and other spices, then air-fried until golden brown and crispy. The air fryer ensures the chicken is cooked quickly, preserving the juiciness inside while creating a flavorful, crispy crust. It's an easy, no-fuss recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve the Shawarma with fresh vegetables, hummus, or yogurt sauce for a delicious, balanced meal. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthier, making it a great choice for those looking to indulge in a classic without the guilt.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Middle East

Keyword: Air Fryer Chicken, Chicken Shawarma

Prep Time: 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 People

Calories: 624kcal

Equipment

Air Fryer

Mixing bowls

Tongs or spatula

Chef's knife

Cutting board

Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

• Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, ginger, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined.
  
• Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
  
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and crisp up perfectly.
  
• Cook the Chicken: Once preheated, place the marinated chicken thighs into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
  
• Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad.
  

Video

Notes

• Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes will still provide a great result.
• Chicken Type: Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender compared to chicken breasts, but you can use either based on your preference.
• Adjust the Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the spice quantities depending on how spicy or mild you like your food. For a little more heat, you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Serving Suggestions: Chicken Shawarma is great when paired with a side of hummus, a cucumber-tomato salad, or a dollop of creamy yogurt sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 624kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 98g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 258mg | Sodium: 236mg | Potassium: 1699mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 260IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 5mg

Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma in the Air Fryer:

Chicken Shawarma made in the air fryer offers several health benefits, primarily due to the method of cooking. By using minimal oil, the air fryer reduces the overall calorie and fat content of this traditional dish. Chicken, especially chicken thighs, is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy. It also contains B-vitamins like niacin and vitamin B6, which are crucial for metabolism and brain health.

The spices used in Shawarma also provide many health benefits. Cumin and coriander are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping with digestion and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Ginger, another key ingredient, aids digestion, reduces nausea, and may even help with muscle soreness.

Since the air fryer uses much less oil than traditional frying, this recipe is a great option for those looking to reduce their fat intake while still enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or dinner, this Chicken Shawarma offers a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber (if served with vegetables or a whole grain).