Save Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma offers a budget-friendly, effortless way to enjoy the bold, aromatic flavors of the Middle East. This one-pan meal features succulent chicken thighs marinated in traditional spices, roasted alongside vibrant vegetables, and served with a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying but easy to prepare and clean up.
Save This recipe’s balance of spices and textures brings a delicious Middle Eastern vibe to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving family or meal prepping, the ease of roasting everything together delivers rich, roasted flavors with none of the fuss.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade: 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon), 3 garlic cloves minced, 2 tsp ground cumin, 2 tsp ground paprika, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp ground turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), 1.5 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- Vegetables: 1 large red onion sliced, 2 bell peppers (any color) sliced, 1 medium zucchini sliced, 2 tbsp olive oil, 0.5 tsp salt, 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
- Yogurt Sauce (Optional): 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 garlic clove finely minced, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, salt and pepper to taste
- To Serve: 4 pita breads or flatbreads (optional), sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickles (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- 2. Prepare the marinade.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly. Let marinate while prepping vegetables (or up to 1 hour if time permits).
- 3. Prep the vegetables.
- Spread sliced onions, bell peppers, and zucchini on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper; toss to coat.
- 4. Arrange chicken and vegetables.
- Place marinated chicken thighs evenly atop the vegetables.
- 5. Roast.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping chicken halfway, until chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- 6. Make the yogurt sauce.
- Meanwhile, stir together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- 7. Serve.
- Slice or shred chicken, then serve with roasted vegetables, warm pita or flatbreads, and a dollop of yogurt sauce. Add fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickles as desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of roasting. Using parchment or foil on the sheet pan will help reduce cleanup time even further.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer, but reduce cooking time by 5 minutes to avoid drying out the meat. To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the yogurt sauce or replace it with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this shawarma with warm pita breads or flatbreads for a traditional experience, or offer sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and pickles on the side. For a gluten-free option, accompany the dish with rice or a fresh salad.
Save This simple sheet pan recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern shawarma right into your kitchen. Easy cleanup and flexible serving options make it a versatile favorite ready to spice up any dinner.
Recipe Q&A Section
- → What spices are used to marinate the chicken?
The chicken is seasoned with cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted but require about 5 minutes less cooking time to avoid drying out.
- → How do I achieve extra crispy chicken skin?
After roasting, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the exterior without overcooking.
- → Is the yogurt sauce necessary?
The yogurt sauce adds a cool, tangy contrast but can be omitted or replaced with a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
- → What vegetables are best for roasting with the chicken?
Sliced red onions, bell peppers, and zucchini are ideal for roasting alongside the chicken for balanced flavor and texture.