Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma: A Deliciously Healthy Recipe You Can Make at Home

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma is a delightful twist on a classic Middle Eastern dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the globe. This recipe brings the rich, aromatic flavors of traditional shawarma right into your kitchen, all while utilizing the convenience of an air fryer. The history of shawarma dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was originally made with lamb or beef, slowly roasted on a vertical spit. Today, chicken shawarma has become a popular choice, celebrated for its tender, juicy meat and vibrant spices.

People adore Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma not only for its incredible taste and texture but also for its ease of preparation. The air fryer ensures that the chicken is perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior while remaining succulent on the inside. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and healthy option for busy weeknights. With its bold flavors and satisfying crunch, it’s no wonder that air fryer chicken shawarma has become a favorite in many households.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons ground paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Pita bread or flatbreads (for serving)
• Vegetables for serving (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
• Hummus or tahini sauce (optional, for serving)

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a spice blend.
2. Add the olive oil, plain yogurt, and lemon juice to the spice blend. Whisk together until you have a smooth marinade.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. You can use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken for better flavor absorption.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a nice crispy exterior.
2. While the air fryer is preheating, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to take the chill off, which helps in even cooking.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Slicing the Chicken

1. After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the chicken thighs into thin strips. This will make it easier to serve and enjoy in wraps or on plates.
2. Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter. You can garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Assembling the Shawarma

1. Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or you can wrap them in foil and place them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
2. To assemble, place a generous amount of sliced chicken in the center of each pita or flatbread.
3. Add your choice of fresh vegetables, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced onions. Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences.
4. If desired, drizzle with hummus or tahini sauce for added creaminess and flavor.
5. Wrap the pita or flatbread around the filling, folding in the sides to secure the contents. You can also cut the wrap in half for easier handling.

Serving Suggestions

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Conclusion:

In summary, this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of Middle Eastern flair. The combination of tender, marinated chicken and the crispy texture achieved in the air fryer makes for a delightful meal that is both satisfying and healthy. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also allows for endless serving possibilities. Pair it with warm pita bread, a fresh tabbouleh salad, or a side of creamy garlic sauce for a complete experience. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding your favorite vegetables to the air fryer alongside the chicken or experimenting with different spices to create your own unique twist on this classic dish. You can also serve the shawarma in a wrap, as a salad topping, or even as a filling for tacos for a fun fusion meal. We encourage you to try this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out for you and any variations you tried! Happy cooking! Print

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma: A Deliciously Healthy Recipe You Can Make at Home
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• Author: Dottie
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Print Recipe
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Description
Savor the flavors of Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma, marinated in a rich blend of spices and yogurt, then air-fried to juicy perfection. Serve it in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and your favorite sauce for a delightful meal.
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Ingredients
Scale 1x2x3x
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons ground paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Pita bread or flatbreads (for serving)
• Vegetables for serving (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
• Hummus or tahini sauce (optional, for serving)
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Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a spice blend.
2. Add the olive oil, plain yogurt, and lemon juice to the spice blend. Whisk together until you have a smooth marinade.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. You can use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken for better flavor absorption.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
6. While the air fryer is preheating, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
7. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
8. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
9. Cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time.
10. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes.
11. After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the chicken thighs into thin strips.
12. Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
13. Warm the pita bread or flatbreads in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
14. To assemble, place a generous amount of sliced chicken in the center of each pita or flatbread.
15. Add your choice of fresh vegetables, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced onions.
16. If desired, drizzle with hummus or tahini sauce.
17. Wrap the pita or flatbread around the filling, folding in the sides to secure the contents.
Notes
• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade.
• Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes