Easy Oven-Roasted Chicken Shawarma (Deeply Caramelized!)
This flavorful chicken shawarma is deeply caramelized and perfect for wraps, bowls, or salads. Easy to prepare and full of rich spices, it’s a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (see Recipe Notes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (can substitute pure maple syrup or agave)
- ½ lemon juice (approx. 2 tablespoons)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, as desired)
- to taste kosher salt and ground black pepper (to season)
Instructions
- Mix marinade ingredients, season with salt and pepper, then coat chicken. Marinate in fridge for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange chicken on foil-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until nearly cooked. Broil for 4-5 minutes until deeply caramelized.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve in pitas, bowls, or with sides.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate overnight. Adjust cayenne for spice preference.