What To Know
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve your chicken shawarma with a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for decoration.
If you’re craving the tantalizing flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, look no further than this comprehensive guide on how to make mouthwatering chicken shawarma on the barbecue. This delectable dish is sure to impress your taste buds and become a staple in your grilling repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Shawarma on BBQ:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon shawarma seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Marinade the Chicken:
1. Combine the chicken strips, olive oil, shawarma seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
2. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Prepare the BBQ:
1. Preheat your barbecue to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken:
1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
2. Thread the chicken strips onto skewers.
3. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Rotate the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Build Your Shawarma:
1. Heat up your preferred flatbread, such as pita bread or naan.
2. Spread a generous amount of hummus or tahini sauce on the flatbread.
3. Add the grilled chicken, along with your favorite toppings such as pickled onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley.
4. Roll up the flatbread to form a shawarma.
5. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Shawarma on BBQ:
- Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill with skewers, as this will prevent even cooking.
- Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Experiment with different shawarma seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations of Chicken Shawarma on BBQ:
- Lamb Shawarma: Substitute chicken with boneless, skinless lamb shoulder.
- Beef Shawarma: Use thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin steak.
- Vegetable Shawarma: Create a vegetarian version by using grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
Accompaniments for Chicken Shawarma on BBQ:
- Hummus
- Tahini sauce
- Pickled onions
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Parsley
- Lemon wedges
The Finishing Touch:
Serve your chicken shawarma with a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for decoration. Enjoy this mouthwatering dish with your family and friends, and savor the authentic flavors of the Middle East.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is the best way to cut the chicken for shawarma?
Cut the chicken breast into thin strips against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. Can I use a different type of meat besides chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb or beef for a different flavor variation.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply, but you can marinate it overnight for maximum flavor.
4. What is the ideal grilling temperature for chicken shawarma?
Medium-high heat (400-450°F) is recommended for grilling chicken shawarma.
5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is cooked through.
