Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma offers a healthier twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish, providing tender and flavorful chicken infused with aromatic spices. Marinating the chicken strips in a blend of yogurt and Middle Eastern spices results in a succulent and well-seasoned dish.
Air fryer Chicken Shawarma
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Main Dish
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Calories
280
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma offers a healthier twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish, providing tender and flavorful chicken infused with aromatic spices. Marinating the chicken strips in a blend of yogurt and Middle Eastern spices results in a succulent and well-seasoned dish.
The air fryer's technology ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior while using minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional grilling or frying methods. This recipe is perfect for recreating the authentic flavors of chicken shawarma at home.
Served wrapped in warm pita bread or flatbreads and accompanied by fresh vegetables and a creamy sauce like tzatziki or tahini, this dish makes for a satisfying and complete meal. The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and robust flavors of the air-fried chicken shawarma are sure to impress your taste buds. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome Middle Eastern delight!
Author:Recipe Content Team
Ingredients
1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
1/4 cup plain yogurt
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salth and black pepper to taste
Pita bread or flatbreads
Sliced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers (for serving)
Tzatziki sauce or tahini sauce (for serving)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
For the Marinade
Other Ingredients
Directions
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat the Air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Air Frying
Place the marinated chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
Serve
Warm the pita bread or flatbreads.
Fill the bread with the air-fried chicken shawarma strips and top with sliced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tzatziki or tahini sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
Recipe Note
- Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken for at least an hour allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken shawarma. For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe due to their tenderness and ability to retain moisture during air frying. However, chicken breast can be used as an alternative, but be cautious not to overcook it to prevent dryness.
- Air Fryer Settings: Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the chicken strips. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serving Variation: Customize your chicken shawarma wraps by adding shredded lettuce, pickles, or a sprinkle of sumac for added tanginess.
- Tzatziki or Tahini Sauce: Both sauces complement the flavors of the chicken shawarma. Feel free to use your preferred sauce or experiment with other Mediterranean-inspired condiments for a unique taste.
- Serving Warm: For the best experience, serve the chicken shawarma immediately after air frying while it's still warm and fresh. This ensures the maximum enjoyment of its flavors and texture.
- Accompaniments: Consider serving the chicken shawarma with a side of hummus, a Mediterranean salad, or crispy roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer or microwave before serving to maintain its texture and flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pita bread or wrap the chicken shawarma in lettuce leaves or gluten-free tortillas.
Nutrition
Nutrition
- per serving
- Calories
- 280
- Fat
- 15 grams
- Sodium
- 320 milligrams
- Carbs
- 3 grams
- Fiber
- 1 grams
- Protein
- 31 grams