Chicken Shawarma Recipe Nigerian Chicken Shawarma How To Make

Are you craving a delicious and flavorful dish? Look no further than chicken shawarma. This Middle Eastern favorite has made its way around the world, including Nigeria, where it has become a popular street food. In this article, we will explore the tantalizing world of chicken shawarma and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make it yourself.

The History of Chicken Shawarma

Shawarma has its roots in Levantine cuisine, particularly in countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey. The dish traditionally consists of thinly sliced marinated meat, usually lamb, chicken, or beef, that is stacked on a vertical spit. As it rotates, the meat cooks and develops a succulent and crispy exterior.

Over time, shawarma has spread across the globe and has been adapted to suit different culinary preferences. In Nigeria, chicken shawarma has gained immense popularity and is now a staple street food. It is often served with various toppings and sauces, making it a customizable and flavorful treat.

The Nigerian Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the mouthwatering process of making Nigerian chicken shawarma. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make Nigerian chicken shawarma, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 500g boneless chicken breast
2. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
3. 1 teaspoon ground paprika
4. 1 teaspoon ground coriander
5. 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
6. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
7. 1 teaspoon onion powder
8. 1 teaspoon salt
9. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10. 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
11. 4 large tortilla wraps
12. Lettuce leaves
13. Sliced tomatoes
14. Sliced onions
15. Mayonnaise
16. Ketchup
17. Hot sauce (optional)

Marinating the Chicken

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breast into thin strips. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken strips to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
3. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Assembling the Shawarma

1. Warm the tortilla wraps in a dry pan or microwave for a few seconds. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll.
2. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a clean surface.
3. Spread a layer of mayonnaise, followed by ketchup, and hot sauce if you like it spicy.
4. Place a few lettuce leaves on top of the sauces.
5. Add a layer of sliced tomatoes and onions for added freshness and crunch.
6. Finally, add a generous amount of the cooked chicken on top of the vegetables.

Rolling and Serving

1. Start rolling the tortilla wrap tightly from one end, making sure to fold in the sides as you go. Use a toothpick or wrap it in aluminum foil to secure the roll.
2. Repeat the process with the remaining tortilla wraps and filling.
3. Your homemade Nigerian chicken shawarma is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a wrap or cut it into bite-sized pieces for a party snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

A: Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken shawarma, you can substitute it with lamb, beef, or even a combination of meats to suit your taste preferences.

Q: Are there any vegetarian options for shawarma?

A: Yes, indeed! If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Marinate them just like you would the chicken and follow the same assembly process.

Q: Can I make the marinade in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook the chicken shawarma.

Final Thoughts

Chicken shawarma is a flavorful and versatile dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Whether you enjoy it as a street food or make it at home, the combination of succulent marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and delicious sauces is sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not try your hand at making Nigerian chicken shawarma and embark on a culinary journey through the tantalizing flavors of the Middle East? Enjoy!