Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken has quickly become a fan favorite for its bold flavors and convenient preparation. Inspired by traditional Middle Eastern street food, this dish combines tender chicken with aromatic spices that deliver a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly tangy notes. It’s a great way to bring vibrant shawarma flavors into our kitchens without the hassle of marinating for hours.
Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe offers a simple yet delicious solution. Using Trader Joe’s pre-seasoned shawarma chicken saves time and guarantees consistent flavor every time we cook. Let’s dive into how to make this dish shine with just a few easy steps and some fresh ingredients to elevate it even further.
Ingredients
To create our flavorful Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken, we gather a collection of fresh and vibrant ingredients that bring authentic Middle Eastern taste to our kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role in building the rich, smoky profile of this beloved dish.
For the Shawarma Chicken
- 1 lb Trader Joe’s pre-marinated Shawarma Chicken (for convenience and bold flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Marinade
We enhance the already seasoned chicken with a simple but powerful marinade to elevate the flavors even more.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Adds pungent aromatic depth |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Brings earthiness |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon | Enhances warmth and citrus notes |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Delivers smoky undertones |
| Ground turmeric | ½ teaspoon | Adds subtle bitterness and color |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Provides tang and balances spices |
| Plain yogurt | 2 tablespoons | Tenderizes chicken and adds creaminess |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds mild heat |
For the Sauce
A creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements our Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken, balancing the spices and adding a refreshing finish.
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (thick and creamy base)
- 1 tablespoon tahini (for nutty richness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (bright and acidic)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for pungency)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (warmth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes and Sides
To complete our dish, we suggest adding fresh garnishes and sides that enhance texture and flavor profiles.
- Finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for herbal freshness)
- Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes (adds crunch and juiciness)
- Warm pita bread or flatbreads (to wrap or serve alongside)
- Pickled vegetables (for tang and distraction)
- A drizzle of olive oil or hot sauce (extra richness or heat)
By assembling these carefully selected ingredients, we’re set to create a delicious and authentic Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken experience that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken perfectly, having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process. Here is the essential gear we use to achieve the best flavors and textures:
- Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
We recommend a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan for even heat distribution and a nice sear on the chicken.
- Mixing Bowls (2 sizes)
One bowl for mixing the marinade with spices and yogurt, another to prepare the creamy tahini sauce.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
For precise measurement of ingredients like ground cumin, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
- Tongs
To flip and handle the chicken pieces safely while cooking, ensuring an even char.
- Whisk or Fork
To mix the marinade and sauce ingredients thoroughly for smooth consistency.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
For slicing optional fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers to garnish or serve on the side.
- Serving Platter or Plate
To arrange the cooked chicken and accompaniments elegantly for presentation.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan | Sear and cook chicken evenly |
| Mixing Bowls (2 sizes) | Mix marinade and tahini sauce separately |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Tongs | Safely handle and flip chicken pieces |
| Whisk or Fork | Blend sauces and marinades smoothly |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Chop fresh garnishes |
| Serving Platter | Present the finished dish |
Working with these tools streamlines the process, letting us focus on delivering the bold flavors and tender texture that make Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken so irresistible.
Preparation
To create the perfect Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken, meticulous preparation is key. Let’s break down the steps to ensure our chicken is packed with bold, authentic flavor.
Preparing the Chicken
First, we take the pre-marinated Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken from the packaging.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; this enhances browning and texture.
- Trim any excess fat or skin if desired for a leaner dish.
- Arrange the chicken pieces on a clean cutting board for easy access during cooking.
Making the Marinade
Although the chicken is pre-marinated, we enhance it with a fresh homemade shawarma marinade to boost flavor complexity.
Here’s what we need:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic cloves | 3 | Minced |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon | |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | |
| Greek yogurt | 1/4 cup | |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Steps to make the marinade:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the fresh lemon juice and Greek yogurt.
- Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
“Enhancing the marinade with yogurt and fresh lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with a creamy, tangy depth that complements the bold shawarma spices.“
Marinating the Chicken
Now we blend the flavors seamlessly:
- Place the prepared chicken in a large mixing bowl or a sealable plastic bag.
- Pour the freshly made marinade over the chicken.
- Using tongs or your hands, coat every piece evenly ensuring the marinade reaches all surfaces.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag tightly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For richer flavor, marinate up to 4 hours.
| Marination Time | Result |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Light infusion of flavors |
| 1-2 hours | Balanced tenderizing and spice |
| 4 hours | Deep flavor penetration |
“While Trader Joe’s chicken is pre-marinated, our extra step of marinating boosts authenticity and tenderness without extending prep time significantly.”
This preparation sets the foundation for a juicy, flavorful Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken ready to cook.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s move forward and master the art of cooking Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken. Follow these precise steps to ensure each bite is bursting with the authentic Middle Eastern flavors we love.
Cooking the Shawarma Chicken on the Stove
- Preheat the skillet: Place a large cast iron or heavy-bottom skillet on medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for 3–4 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the chicken: Remove the marinated Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken from the refrigerator. Let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. Using tongs, shake off excess marinade but do not wipe it off.
- Add oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the hot skillet and swirl to coat the surface.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 5–6 minutes on the first side without moving them to allow a caramelized crust to form.
- Flip and cook: Using tongs, turn each piece and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken: Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step locks in the juices and enhances tenderness.
“Remember, a hot pan and minimal flipping are keys to developing that signature bold and smoky Shawarma flavor.”
Alternative: Oven-Baked Shawarma Chicken
For effortless cooking and consistent heat, baking in the oven is an excellent alternative.
| Step | Instructions | Temperature & Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | Set oven to 425°F (220°C) | Preheat fully |
| Prepare chicken | Arrange marinated chicken on a rimmed baking sheet | Use parchment for easy cleanup |
| Bake | Place in center rack, bake until golden and cooked through | 20–25 minutes |
| Flip halfway | Turn chicken pieces at the 12-minute mark for even cooking | |
| Check doneness | Use a meat thermometer; target internal temp 165°F (74°C) | |
| Rest | Remove from oven, let rest covered for 5 minutes |
Oven baking enhances the juiciness with slightly crispier edges and allows easy batch cooking for gatherings.
By mastering both the stovetop and oven methods, we can enjoy Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken with perfect texture and deeply infused flavors every time.
Making the Sauce
To perfectly complement our Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken, crafting a creamy, tangy sauce is essential. This sauce balances the bold spices with refreshing notes, elevating the overall flavor profile. Here’s how we make the sauce step-by-step:
Ingredients for the Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons tahini for a rich nutty base
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to brighten
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced for pungent depth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin for warmth
- Salt to taste (start with 1/4 teaspoon)
- Water, as needed to thin consistency
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Whisk the Base
In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt and tahini. Whisk vigorously until smooth and uniform.
- Add Brightness and Spice
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and cumin. These ingredients introduce the signature tang and warmth needed to pair perfectly with the shawarma spices.
- Season and Adjust Texture
Season with salt. Add water gradually, about 1 teaspoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a pourable but still creamy consistency. The sauce should coat the chicken nicely without being runny.
- Chill for Flavor Development
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the sauce’s creaminess and depth.
Sauce Details at a Glance
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | 1 cup | Creamy base, tangy flavor |
| Tahini | 2 tablespoons | Nutty richness |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Brightness, acidity |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Aromatic pungency |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 teaspoon | Earthy warmth |
| Salt | to taste | Enhances all flavors |
| Water | As needed | Adjust sauce consistency |
“The sauce is more than just an accompaniment—it’s the creamy counterbalance to the smoky, spiced chicken that transforms each bite into an authentic Middle Eastern experience.”
Once the sauce is ready, drizzle generously over our perfectly cooked Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken or serve on the side for dipping. The harmonious blend of ingredients will highlight the bold flavors, turning our meal into a memorable feast.
Assembling the Shawarma Plate
Now that we’ve perfected the Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken and prepared its creamy sauce, it’s time to assemble a flavor-packed shawarma plate that highlights each component. The key is layering textures, colors, and tastes for a satisfying, authentic experience.
Serving Suggestions
To build a balanced and visually appealing plate, we recommend the following:
- Shawarma Chicken: Arrange the golden, juicy strips in the center or off to one side as the star of the dish.
- Creamy Shawarma Sauce: Drizzle generously over the chicken or serve in a small bowl for dipping.
- Warm Pita Bread: Cut into halves or quarters and place alongside for wrapping or scooping.
- Fresh Vegetables: Add crisp diced cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for refreshing crunch.
- Pickled Vegetables: Include pickled turnips or peppers to introduce tangy contrast.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint to brighten flavors.
- Olive oil drizzle or hot sauce: Offer extra for a finishing touch.
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shawarma Chicken | Protein centerpiece | Cooked to juicy, 165°F |
| Creamy Shawarma Sauce | Flavor enhancer | Tangy, smooth texture |
| Pita Bread | Carby base | Warm, soft for wrapping |
| Fresh Vegetables | Crunch and freshness | Adds color and texture |
| Pickled Vegetables | Acidic brightness | Cuts richness |
| Fresh Herbs | Aroma and freshness | Brightens dish |
| Olive oil or Hot Sauce | Finishing flavor boost | Customize heat or richness |
Optional Add-Ons
We love customizing our Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken plate with extras that appeal to a variety of palates and give it that restaurant-quality edge.
- Rice Pilaf or Couscous: Add a scoop to the plate for a hearty side that soaks up sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Incorporate charred eggplants, zucchini, or bell peppers for smokiness.
- Hummus or Baba Ganoush: Provide small serving dishes for extra creamy dips.
- Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle for a salty, creamy contrast.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze over the plate for an extra zing.
Each add-on introduces new layers of flavor and texture that complement the distinctive spices of our Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken beautifully. By mixing and matching, we can tailor the plate to suit any occasion from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the fresh flavors and texture of our Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken. Follow these steps to keep your shawarma chicken delicious and safe for later enjoyment.
Cooling and Refrigeration
- Allow the cooked shawarma chicken to cool slightly at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating.
- Transfer the chicken to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store the container in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
Freezing for Longer Storage
- For extended preservation, freeze the cooked chicken in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
- Label the package with the date to track freshness.
- Store in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 40°F (4°C) or below | Up to 3-4 days |
| Freezing | 0°F (-18°C) or below | Up to 2 months |
Reheating Leftover Shawarma Chicken
- Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat:
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Cover chicken with a damp paper towel, heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between intervals.
“Reheating slowly helps preserve the tender texture and prevents the bold shawarma spices from fading.“
Using Leftovers Creatively
Our leftover Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken offers versatile options:
- Tossed into salads with fresh herbs and a drizzle of the tangy shawarma sauce.
- Wrapped in warm pita with fresh veggies for a quick shawarma sandwich.
- Mixed into grain bowls with quinoa or rice, roasted veggies, and a dollop of creamy sauce.
- Added to scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos for a flavorful start to the day.
Important Tips at a Glance
| Tip | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cool chicken within 2 hours | Prevent bacterial growth |
| Store in airtight containers | Preserve flavor and moisture |
| Label frozen leftovers | Track freshness and avoid waste |
| Reheat gently | Maintain tender texture and flavor |
By following these storage and reheating tips, we ensure our Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken remains as flavorful and satisfying as the moment it was first cooked.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken offers a fantastic blend of bold flavors and convenience that fits perfectly into our busy lives. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can easily elevate this dish into a memorable meal that delights every time. Whether cooking for a quick dinner or entertaining guests, it’s a versatile option that brings authentic Middle Eastern taste to our table.
By following these tips and pairing the chicken with fresh sides and sauces, we ensure every bite is flavorful and satisfying. Plus, smart storage and creative leftover ideas mean we get to enjoy this delicious dish beyond just one meal. Let’s keep exploring and savoring the rich flavors Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken?
Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken is a pre-marinated chicken inspired by traditional Middle Eastern shawarma, featuring bold spices and tender texture for quick and flavorful meals.
What ingredients are needed to enhance Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken?
Key ingredients include garlic, ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, tahini, salt, pepper, and optional garnishes like fresh herbs, cucumbers, tomatoes, pita bread, and pickled vegetables.
What kitchen tools are recommended for preparing Shawarma Chicken?
Essential tools include a large skillet or cast iron pan, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups, tongs, a whisk or fork, cutting board, sharp knife, and a serving platter.
How long should I marinate the Shawarma Chicken for best flavor?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination (up to several hours) helps the flavors penetrate deeper for a juicier, tastier result.
What cooking methods can I use for Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken?
You can cook it on the stovetop in a preheated skillet or oven-bake at 425°F (220°C). Both methods require cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How do I make the creamy sauce for Shawarma Chicken?
Whisk Greek yogurt with tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and water until smooth. Chill before serving to enhance the tangy, balanced flavor.
What sides pair well with Shawarma Chicken?
Serve with warm pita bread, fresh and pickled vegetables, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, hummus, feta cheese, and lemon wedges for a full shawarma experience.
How should I store leftover Shawarma Chicken?
Cool the chicken no more than 2 hours at room temperature, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage with proper labeling.
What is the best way to reheat leftover Shawarma Chicken?
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve tenderness and flavor. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent drying out the chicken.
Can leftover Shawarma Chicken be used in other dishes?
Yes, it’s perfect for salads, wraps, grain bowls, or breakfast dishes, adding versatile and flavorful protein to your meals.