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.

5 from 1 vote

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Middle East

Keyword: Air Fryer Chicken, Chicken Shawarma

Prep Time: 1 10

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 1 35

Servings: People

Calories: 624kcal

Equipment

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