These Chicken Shawarma Kebabs bring together the savory flavors of classic Middle Eastern shawarma in a convenient, easy-to-make kebab form. With a marinade that combines creamy Greek yogurt and aromatic spices, each bite is rich, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. Ideal for summer grilling, these kebabs work just as well served in pita wraps, alongside vibrant salads, or paired with hearty grains.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Kebab Recipe

The key to these chicken shawarma kebabs lies in the yogurt-based marinade. Greek yogurt not only softens the chicken but also acts as a base for a blend of spices, creating a bold, complex flavor profile with hints of cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon. Here are a few more reasons to love this recipe:

Quick and Easy: With a quick marinating time and short grilling period, these kebabs are ready in under an hour, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Healthful Ingredients: Greek yogurt offers a protein boost, while using chicken thighs ensures each bite is moist and flavorful.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them in pita wraps, over rice, or with fresh salads and sauces. You can easily customize the accompaniments to suit your tastes.

Ingredients for Flavorful Chicken Shawarma Kebabs

Here’s what you’ll need for the marinade and kebabs:

200 g plain Greek yogurt – The yogurt tenderizes the chicken while adding a subtle tang.
2 tsp ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note.
2 tsp ground cardamom – Lends a slightly sweet, aromatic quality.
2 tsp turmeric – For color and a hint of peppery flavor.
2 tsp ground cinnamon – Balances the flavors with a warm, spicy-sweetness.
2 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors and seasoning the chicken.
1.5 kg chicken thighs, cut into 3 cm pieces – Chicken thighs are ideal for grilling; they stay juicy and tender.
Fresh parsley, chopped – Garnish for a burst of fresh, herby flavor and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cumin, cardamom, turmeric, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed, creating a thick, spiced yogurt mixture.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Add the Chicken: Place the chicken thigh pieces in the bowl with the marinade, tossing well to ensure each piece is coated. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours if you have more time.
Why Marinate? Marinating allows the yogurt and spices to penetrate the chicken, infusing it with flavor and helping to keep it moist during grilling. Avoid marinating for too long, as the yogurt’s acidity can start breaking down the meat too much.

3. Grill the Kebabs

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A well-heated grill will help achieve a perfect sear on the chicken, adding a smoky, slightly charred flavor.
Thread the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or bamboo skewers (if using bamboo, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning). Space the pieces evenly for uniform cooking.
Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes. The chicken should be lightly charred and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

4. Serve and Garnish

Garnish with Parsley: Once off the grill, sprinkle the kebabs with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these kebabs on their own, or serve with pita bread, hummus, tabbouleh, or a tangy garlic sauce.

Tips for Perfect Shawarma Kebabs

Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts in this recipe as they retain more moisture during grilling, ensuring each kebab is tender and juicy.
Don’t Skimp on Marinating: While a short marinating time will work, giving the chicken a full 2 hours allows the spices and yogurt to fully penetrate, resulting in deeper flavors.
Monitor the Grill Temperature: Avoid grilling over high heat, as this can dry out the chicken. Medium-high heat ensures the kebabs cook evenly and develop a nice char without burning.

Flavorful Additions and Variations

Add Fresh Garlic: Mince 2-3 garlic cloves into the marinade for an extra burst of savory flavor.
Lemon Zest for Zing: Grate a bit of lemon zest into the marinade to brighten the flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat in your shawarma.
Extra Garnishes: Serve the kebabs with thinly sliced red onions, fresh cucumber, or a sprinkle of sumac for a traditional Middle Eastern touch.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Kebabs

There are countless ways to serve these chicken shawarma kebabs. Here are a few ideas:

In Pita Wraps: Stuff warm pita bread with the grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and your favorite sauce.
Over Grains: Serve the kebabs over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, couscous, or quinoa for a filling meal.
With Fresh Salads: Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad, drizzled with lemon and olive oil, or serve alongside tabbouleh for a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced chicken.
Dips and Sauces: Try pairing these kebabs with a side of creamy hummus, garlic yogurt sauce, or tahini sauce for an added layer of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing: Place any leftover kebabs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the kebabs in a hot skillet or under the grill to maintain their flavor and texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken (before grilling) for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as directed.

Why Greek Yogurt is Ideal for Marinades

Greek yogurt serves as a tenderizing base for the marinade, thanks to its mild acidity. Unlike more acidic marinades, such as those using lemon or vinegar, yogurt helps break down the chicken’s proteins without making it tough. The creaminess of Greek yogurt also helps spices adhere to the meat, creating a thick coating that locks in moisture and enhances the flavor.

Health Benefits of Shawarma-Spiced Chicken

Rich in Protein: Chicken thighs provide a healthy dose of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and energy.
Beneficial Spices: The spices in this recipe, including cumin, turmeric, and cardamom, are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Greek Yogurt: This yogurt adds beneficial probiotics and extra protein, contributing to digestive health and helping create a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Shawarma Kebabs are a delicious way to enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of shawarma without needing a spit or rotisserie. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving Middle Eastern flavors, this recipe brings bold taste with minimal effort. With their tender texture, tantalizing spices, and versatility, these kebabs are sure to become a go-to favorite for summer grilling and beyond. Enjoy with your favorite accompaniments and savor the taste of shawarma at home!

Chicken Shawarma Kebab

Enjoy a quick and flavorful Chicken Shawarma Kebab with warm spices and creamy Greek yogurt. This easy marinade makes for tender, aromatic chicken that’s perfect for grilling and ideal for a summer barbecue.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Marinating 2

Total Time 29

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 people

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

Marinade & Main Ingredients

200 g plain Greek yogurt
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground cardamom
2 tsp turmeric
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp salt
1.5 kg chicken thighs cut into 3 cm pieces
fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cumin, cardamom, turmeric, cinnamon, and salt. Add the chicken thigh pieces, tossing well to ensure each piece is coated. Marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken onto 8 metal or soaked bamboo skewers, spacing the pieces evenly. Grill the skewers, turning every 3-4 minutes, for a total of 10-12 minutes or until lightly charred and fully cooked.
Sprinkle the grilled kebabs with fresh parsley before serving.