Chicken Shawarma Tower Baked in the Oven

If you’re craving bold, mouthwatering flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East, then look no further than this Chicken Shawarma Tower Baked in the Oven. Imagine juicy, tender chicken marinated in a blend of spices—cumin, coriander, garlic, and turmeric—stacked into a glorious tower, then baked to perfection. This recipe is your ticket to a meal that feels special, yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. By stacking the marinated chicken into a tower, it helps to lock in all the delicious flavors and juices, making each bite even more satisfying. The chicken comes out crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and totally irresistible. Plus, with the oven doing most of the work, you’ll have more time to enjoy the process and prep any sides to complement this flavorful main event.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Shawarma Tower Baked in the Oven

A Showstopper
This chicken shawarma tower is not only delicious, but it also looks incredible when served. It’s the perfect way to impress guests at your next dinner party or family gathering, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make.

Full of Flavor
With a marinate that’s brimming with Middle Eastern spices, each bite is packed with bold, savory goodness. The blend of cumin, paprika, garlic, and lemon is unforgettable.

Healthy and Hearty
Packed with protein and vegetables, this chicken dish can easily fit into a balanced meal. Serve it with a side of fresh salad or rice for the perfect dinner combo.

Hands-Off Cooking
While you’ll need to marinate the chicken, the oven does the rest of the work for you. This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.

Customizable
Want to spice things up? Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade. Or, if you’re craving something a little milder, adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients in Chicken Shawarma Tower Baked in the Oven

Here’s what you need to make your own Chicken Shawarma Tower:

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs work great for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful during baking. You can use breasts, but thighs are much more forgiving!
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold, savory flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Olive Oil: For the marinade and to keep the chicken moist during baking.
• Ground Cumin: A classic shawarma spice with a warm, earthy flavor.
• Ground Coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy note.
• Ground Paprika: For a touch of smokiness.
• Ground Turmeric: Adds depth and that signature golden hue.
• Ground Cinnamon: A hint of sweetness and warmth to balance the spices.
• Ground Allspice: Another warming spice that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.

For Serving:

• Pita or Flatbreads: To wrap up the delicious chicken and sauces!
• Fresh Vegetables: Such as cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce for a refreshing contrast.
• Tahini Sauce or Yogurt Sauce: A creamy, tangy sauce drizzled on top takes the dish to the next level.
• Pickled Onions: For that extra pop of flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be!

Build the Shawarma Tower:

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Stack the Chicken: Once marinated, take the chicken thighs and begin stacking them in a vertical position on a baking sheet, making a tower-like structure. Make sure they’re packed tightly together, which will help them cook evenly and keep all those juices in.
5. Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are crispy. You may want to flip the chicken halfway through baking for even crispiness.

Serve:

6. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Slice and Serve: Slice the chicken into thin strips, and serve with pita or flatbread. Top with your choice of fresh veggies, a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce, and some tangy pickled onions.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 40g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Tower Baked in the Oven

• With Pita or Flatbreads: This is the classic choice. Warm up some pita or flatbreads and wrap the chicken, veggies, and sauce together for a satisfying meal.
• As a Salad: Serve the chicken over a bed of greens, topped with cucumber, tomato, and a yogurt sauce for a lighter option.
• With Rice: Serve the shawarma with a side of fluffy rice for a more filling meal.
• With Pickled Vegetables: The sharp, tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers or onions is the perfect contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Crispy Chicken: You can broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes of baking to get an extra crispy exterior.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For an even more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!
• Use Chicken Breasts: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may dry out more quickly than thighs, so be sure not to overcook them.

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A1: Yes! Chicken breasts work, but thighs are more forgiving when it comes to staying juicy during baking. If using breasts, be sure to watch the cooking time closely to avoid them drying out.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time, and bake it when you’re ready. The chicken can also be stored in the fridge for a few days after baking.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or on a stovetop.

Q4: Can I freeze the chicken?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken or the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge before cooking or reheating.

Q5: Can I make this recipe without an oven?
A5: If you don’t have an oven, you can pan-fry the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat, cooking each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.

Q6: Can I serve this with a different sauce?
A6: Yes, you can serve it with any sauce you like! Tzatziki, hummus, or even a simple garlic yogurt sauce would work beautifully.

Q7: How do I make this dish spicier?
A7: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken before serving.

Q8: What kind of herbs can I use?
A8: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint are all great herb options to sprinkle on top for freshness.

Q9: Can I make this dish on a grill instead?
A9: Yes! You can grill the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor. Just stack the chicken onto skewers or directly on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side.

Q10: What sides go well with this dish?
A10: Some great side options include couscous, roasted vegetables, a tabbouleh salad, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.

Conclusion

This Chicken Shawarma Tower Baked in the Oven is a total showstopper and a great way to bring the bold flavors of the Middle East into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The best part? It’s easy to make, and the oven does most of the work. Enjoy this flavorful tower of goodness—you won’t regret it!

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