Chicken shawarma has become a beloved street food favorite around the world, and Trader Joe’s version brings that authentic taste right to our kitchens. This recipe captures the perfect blend of spices and tender chicken that makes shawarma so irresistible. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests, this dish delivers.
We love how easy it is to recreate the rich, smoky flavors with simple ingredients you can find at Trader Joe’s. From the warm spices to the juicy, marinated chicken, every bite transports us to the bustling markets of the Middle East. Let’s dive into making this delicious chicken shawarma that’s sure to become a staple in our meal rotation.
Ingredients
To recreate Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s Recipe, we need key ingredients that capture the authentic Middle Eastern flavors. Each component plays a crucial role—from the fragrant marinade to the creamy garlic sauce and the perfect finishing touches.
For the Chicken Marinade
We start with the essentials for tender, flavorful chicken that embodies the signature spice blend.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and patted dry
- 3 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Shawarma Spice Blend or a mix of ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt, for moisture and tang
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, to help coat the chicken evenly
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh squeezed for brightness
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Garlic Sauce
This sauce brings a creamy, zesty contrast that balances the robust chicken flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon tahini (optional for an authentic nutty hint)
- Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon water to thin if needed
Additional Ingredients
To assemble a complete Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s meal we need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pita bread or flatbreads | 4 large | Wraps |
| Sliced cucumbers | 1 cup | Fresh crunch |
| Sliced tomatoes | 1 cup | Juicy flavor |
| Pickled turnips or onions | ½ cup | Tangy acidity |
| Fresh parsley | ¼ cup, chopped | Garnish for freshness |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Optional drizzle |
This carefully selected list ensures every bite bursts with layers of spice, creaminess, and freshness—true to the Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma experience.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the authentic taste and perfect texture of Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s Recipe, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s what we recommend using to make the process smooth and efficient:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for marinating the chicken and preparing the garlic sauce. Opt for glass or stainless steel to avoid any metallic taste.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurement of spices and liquids ensures the authentic flavor profile Trader Joe’s is known for.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for trimming chicken, chopping fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley.
- Skillet or Grill Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan helps sear the chicken evenly, producing the slightly charred edges that make shawarma so irresistible.
- Tongs: For flipping and handling chicken pieces safely without piercing the meat, preserving juices.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the garlic sauce ingredients into a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Aluminum Foil or Plate: To cover marinated chicken while it rests and intensifies in flavor.
- Serving Platter: For presenting the chicken shawarma alongside pita bread and accompaniments beautifully.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating chicken, preparing sauce | Prefer glass or stainless steel |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate seasoning measurements | Must be precise |
| Sharp Knife | Cutting chicken and vegetables | Keep sharp for clean cuts |
| Cutting Board | Food prep surface | Use separate boards for meat and veggies |
| Skillet/Grill Pan | Cooking chicken | Heavy-bottomed for even heat |
| Tongs | Handling chicken | Avoid piercing meat |
| Whisk | Mixing garlic sauce | Ensures creamy texture |
| Aluminum Foil/Plate | Covering marinated chicken | Maintains flavor |
| Serving Platter | Presentation | Optional but ideal |
By assembling these tools before you start, we set ourselves up for success in crafting delicious, tender, and flavor-packed Chicken Shawarma inspired by Trader Joe’s.
Prep Work
Before diving into the cooking, we need to prepare each component carefully to build the authentic Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s flavor. Organized prep ensures smooth cooking and layers of delicious taste.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs of excess fat for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Shawarma Spice Blend
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Add the chicken to the marinade and toss until fully coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap or foil and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to intensify the spices and tenderize the meat.
Making the Garlic Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Mix vigorously to create a smooth creamy sauce that will complement the spicy chicken.
- Chill in the fridge while the chicken marinates to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparing the Vegetables and Wraps
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Cucumbers | Thinly slice into half-moons |
| Tomatoes | Dice into small cubes |
| Pickled Turnips | Slice into thin strips |
| Fresh Parsley | Finely chop |
| Pita Bread or Wraps | Warm in oven or skillet briefly |
- Wash and dry all fresh vegetables to retain crispness and freshness.
- Keep the pita bread warm by wrapping in foil and placing it in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes. This will make it pliable and perfect for wrapping the shawarma filling.
This preparation ensures every element of our Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s recipe shines through with balanced textures and flavors.
Instructions
Follow these steps closely to achieve the authentic Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s flavors at home. Each stage—from marinating to assembling—is essential for capturing the rich spices and tender texture that make this dish a favorite.
Marinating the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken to absorb all the bold and vibrant flavors.
- Trim 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs, discarding excess fat for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the following marinade ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Trader Joe’s Shawarma Spice Blend | 2 tablespoons |
| Minced garlic | 3 cloves |
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
- Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight to deepen the flavor and tenderize the meat.
“Marinating overnight lets the chicken soak in the perfect balance of spices, yogurt tang, and citrus brightness,” ensuring every bite is bursting with shawarma authenticity.
Cooking the Chicken
Proper cooking is key to achieving juicy tender chicken with that signature shawarma char.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Lightly grease the pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, allowing a nice sear and flavorful char to develop.
- Use tongs to flip the chicken evenly.
- Confirm doneness when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest on a plate or foil for 5 minutes to retain juices.
Assembling the Shawarma Wraps
Bringing all elements together creates the layers of texture and flavor that make Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma unforgettable.
- Warm pita bread or your choice of wrap in a dry skillet or microwave for softness.
- Spread a generous layer of the prepared creamy garlic sauce.
- Add sliced cooked chicken evenly.
- Top with freshly chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled turnips, and parsley to introduce crisp freshness and tang.
- Roll the pita tightly around the fillings, folding in edges as you go to prevent spillage.
- Optionally, drizzle extra garlic sauce over the assembled wrap for more creaminess.
“Each wrap offers spiced tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh veggies in perfect harmony—true to Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma experience.”
Serve immediately or wrap tightly for a delicious portable meal.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of our Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s Recipe, we recommend several serving options that bring out the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures.
- Classic Shawarma Wrap
Warm the pita bread or flatbreads until soft and pliable. Spread a generous layer of the creamy garlic sauce on the bread. Add sliced, perfectly cooked chicken shawarma followed by fresh cucumber slices, diced tomatoes, pickled turnips, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Roll the bread tightly and serve immediately. This classic wrap showcases a balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness in every bite.
- Shawarma Salad Bowl
For a lighter variation, serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens or chopped romaine lettuce. Drizzle extra garlic sauce or a tahini-based dressing over the top. Add chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled turnips, and fresh herbs such as parsley or mint to complement the smoky, spiced chicken. This bowl delivers all the signature shawarma flavors with a crisp, refreshing texture.
- Family Style Platter
Arrange the chicken shawarma slices on a large serving platter. Surround with warm pita bread, bowls of creamy garlic sauce, chopped veggies, pickled turnips, and lemon wedges. This option encourages guests to build their own wraps or plates, creating a fun interactive dining experience reminiscent of street food culture.
- Shawarma Rice Plate
Serve the succulent chicken over fragrant rice—such as basmati or a turmeric-infused pilaf. Accompany with a spoonful of garlic sauce, fresh salad, and pickled vegetables. This hearty combination appeals for a more substantial meal without losing the distinctive shawarma character.
Serving Temperature and Presentation Tips
| Element | Serving Temperature | Presentation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Shawarma | Hot | Slice thinly and arrange in overlapping rows |
| Pita Bread | Warm | Wrap in foil to retain warmth until serving |
| Garlic Sauce | Chilled or room temp | Serve in small ramekins or drizzle decoratively |
| Fresh Vegetables | Cold | Prepare just before serving for crisp texture |
| Pickled Turnips | Cold | Offer as small side portions for tangy contrast |
“Serving your chicken shawarma with a variety of fresh, crunchy toppings and creamy sauce transforms the meal from simple to extraordinary.” We always find that balance of textures and temperatures elevates not just the flavor but the overall dining experience.
By combining these serving ideas and presentation suggestions, we can recreate a delicious, authentic, and visually appealing Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s meal perfect for any occasion.
Make-Ahead Tips
To fully enjoy the robust flavors of Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’s Recipe, planning ahead is essential. Here are our top make-ahead tips that ensure every bite bursts with the authentic taste and tenderness you crave.
Marinate the Chicken Overnight
Marinating the chicken for at least one hour is good, but overnight marination is better. This allows the tender thighs to absorb the rich spices, garlic, and tangy lemon juice from the Trader Joe’s Shawarma Spice Blend marinade deeply.
- Tip: Cover the marinating chicken tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate.
- This extra time tenderizes the meat and intensifies the flavor profile, giving us that irresistible shawarma taste.
Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce in Advance
Whisking together the garlic sauce ahead of time makes assembly quick and stress-free.
- Combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Pro tip: The sauce flavors meld beautifully with rest time — expect a richer, more harmonious taste.
Fresh Veggies and Pickled Turnips Prep
- Slice cucumbers and tomatoes and chop fresh parsley about 1 hour before serving.
- Keep vegetables refrigerated in sealed containers to preserve crispness.
- Pickled turnips can be stored unopened but should be refrigerated once opened.
Pita Bread Storage and Warming
- Store pita bread in an airtight bag at room temperature up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Warm pita by wrapping in foil and heating in a low oven (300°F) for 5–7 minutes before serving for a soft, pliable texture.
Make-Ahead Storage Summary
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Chicken | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 24 hours | Best flavor after overnight marination |
| Creamy Garlic Sauce | Covered bowl, fridge | 30 minutes to 24 hours | Flavors deepen with resting time |
| Sliced Vegetables | Sealed containers, fridge | Up to 12 hours | Keep chilled until assembly |
| Pickled Turnips | Sealed jar, fridge | Several weeks (unopened) | Refrigerate after opening |
| Pita Bread | Airtight bag, room temp/freezer | 2 days room temp/frozen | Warm before serving for best texture |
Using these make-ahead techniques, our cooking experience becomes seamless. We focus more on enjoying the rich, aromatic flavors and less on last-minute kitchen rush.
Conclusion
Bringing the bold flavors of Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma into our kitchens is both simple and rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, we can enjoy a meal that’s rich in spice, creamy textures, and fresh toppings anytime we want.
This recipe not only satisfies our craving for authentic Middle Eastern street food but also offers versatility in how we serve it. Whether wrapped, plated, or shared family-style, it’s sure to become a favorite in our meal rotation.
By preparing components ahead and following the tips shared, we set ourselves up for a stress-free cooking experience that delivers delicious results every time. Let’s get cooking and savor the vibrant taste of homemade Chicken Shawarma!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma at home?
You’ll need boneless skinless chicken thighs, Trader Joe’s Shawarma Spice Blend, garlic, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, pita bread, cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled turnips, parsley, and ingredients for a creamy garlic sauce like mayonnaise.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but ideally overnight. This allows the spices and yogurt to tenderize the meat and infuse rich flavor.
What equipment is essential for cooking Chicken Shawarma?
Basic equipment includes mixing bowls, measuring spoons, a sharp knife and cutting board, a skillet or grill pan, tongs, a whisk, aluminum foil or a plate for resting the chicken, and a serving platter.
How do I cook the chicken to achieve authentic shawarma texture?
Preheat your skillet or grill pan, then cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What is the best way to assemble a Chicken Shawarma wrap?
Warm the pita bread, spread a generous layer of creamy garlic sauce, add the cooked chicken, then top with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled turnips, and parsley before wrapping.
Can I prepare parts of the Chicken Shawarma dish ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight, prepare the garlic sauce in advance, slice vegetables and store them sealed, and keep pita bread at room temperature or freeze it for longer storage.
What are some serving suggestions for Chicken Shawarma?
Try a classic wrap, a light salad bowl, a family-style platter for sharing, or a shawarma rice plate. Each option highlights the balance of spices, creaminess, and fresh toppings.
How should I store leftovers of Chicken Shawarma components?
Store marinated chicken and cooked meat in airtight containers in the fridge up to 3 days. Keep veggies sliced in sealed containers and pita bread at room temperature for 1–2 days or freeze for longer. Refrigerate the garlic sauce separately.
What makes Trader Joe’s Shawarma Spice Blend special for this recipe?
It combines authentic Middle Eastern spices, providing the perfect balance of warmth and earthiness that defines traditional chicken shawarma flavor.
Is this Chicken Shawarma recipe suitable for quick weeknight dinners?
Absolutely! With simple prep and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meal in under an hour, especially if the chicken has been marinated ahead of time.