Flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma with warm Middle Eastern spices
Enjoy the authentic taste of Middle Eastern chicken shawarma made effortlessly in an air fryer for a healthy and quick dinner option.
Equipment
- 1 air fryer
- 1 Mixing bowl large
- 1 knife for slicing chicken
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Pita bread for serving
- Lettuce for serving
- Tomato slices for serving
- Cucumber slices for serving
- Tahini sauce for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge and slice the thighs into thin strips.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Place the chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked and slightly crispy.
Serving
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve in warm pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce.
Storage
- Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat using the air fryer or a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Notes
Pro Tips: For an extra burst of flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. Ingredient Substitutions: You can use chicken breast instead of thighs, but adjust the cooking time as they cook faster. How to Serve: Serve with a side of hummus or tabbouleh for a complete meal. Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare and marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time on cooking day.