Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its aromatic spices and juicy, tender meat. This air fryer version offers a healthier and quicker alternative without compromising on flavour. By using the air fryer, you get that perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and succulence on the inside. The marinade, rich with garlic, lemon, and a blend of traditional spices, infuses the chicken with an irresistible depth of flavour. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a casual get-together, this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma is sure to impress.

What is the Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Recipe

One of the beauties of this dish is its versatility. Serve it in pita bread with fresh veggies and a dollop of tahini sauce for a traditional take, or get creative with shawarma bowls or salads. The combination of spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric not only brings warmth and earthiness but also has various health benefits. This dish is a delightful way to introduce new flavours to your family and friends, all while keeping it simple and quick with the help of your air fryer.

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Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma

Recipe by Eric

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

35

minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

• Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
  Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade.
  Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for the best flavour.
  
• Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
• Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary.
  Air fry for 18-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on the edges.
• Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  Serve with a warm pita, fresh vegetables, and your favourite sauces.

Notes

• Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma!

Ideas For Serving

• Shawarma Wraps: Serve the chicken in pita or flatbread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce.
• Shawarma Bowls: Combine the sliced chicken with rice or quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a side of hummus.
• Salad: Add the chicken to a fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy yogurt dressing.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

History

Shawarma is a popular street food in the Middle East, with origins tracing back to the Ottoman Empire. Traditionally, it’s made by stacking marinated meat on a vertical rotisserie and slow-roasting it for hours. The meat is shaved off in thin slices as it cooks, usually served in pita bread with a variety of accompaniments. This modern air fryer version allows you to recreate those classic flavours at home without the need for special equipment.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chicken can be marinated a day in advance and cooked when ready to serve. Cooked chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked and slightly charred.

How do I store leftovers?

Any leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can then be reheated in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.