Introduction to Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower
Welcome to my kitchen, where today, I’m excited to share my Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower! This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful way to bring family and friends together. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick solution for a busy weeknight, this recipe is perfect. The marinated chicken, stacked high and baked to perfection, will impress your loved ones and satisfy their taste buds. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to in your culinary repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower
This Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower is a game-changer for busy cooks like me. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time while delivering maximum flavor. The tender, juicy chicken, infused with spices, creates a taste explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s visually stunning, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner. Who doesn’t love a dish that looks as good as it tastes?
Ingredients for Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, perfect for absorbing the marinade.
- Plain Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken, making it super succulent.
- Olive oil: A healthy fat that enhances flavor and keeps the chicken moist during baking.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish with acidity, balancing the spices beautifully.
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses the chicken with a robust flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Ground cumin: This spice brings warmth and earthiness, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Ground paprika: Adds a sweet smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Ground coriander: Offers a citrusy note that complements the other spices perfectly.
- Ground turmeric: Not only does it add a lovely golden hue, but it also brings health benefits.
- Ground cinnamon: A hint of sweetness that rounds out the spice blend beautifully.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a kick, this adds a spicy punch!
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Large onion: Sliced into rings, it serves as a sturdy base for the skewer and adds flavor.
- Tall metal skewer: An oven-safe skewer is crucial for stacking the chicken into a tower.
- Fresh parsley, sliced onions, or lemon wedges: These are great for garnishing and serving, adding freshness to each bite.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making the Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices in a large bowl. This marinade is the heart of the dish, so don’t rush it! Once combined, add the boneless chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least four hours. If you can, let it sit overnight for maximum flavor. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Skewer
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, grab a baking tray and place a thick slice of onion at the bottom. This will act as a sturdy base for your skewer. Insert the tall metal skewer vertically through the onion. This setup not only holds the chicken but also infuses it with extra flavor as it cooks.
Step 3: Assemble the Tower
Now comes the fun part! Take the marinated chicken thighs and stack them onto the skewer, pressing them down firmly. This helps create a solid tower that will cook evenly. Don’t worry about perfection; just make sure the chicken is snug on the skewer. The more compact, the better the results!
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Halfway through, give the tray a gentle turn to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For an extra char, broil for the last five minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for about five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Carefully slice thin pieces off the tower using a sharp knife. Serve it with warm pita bread, garlic sauce, pickles, and fresh veggies. Your Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower is ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the skewer; a snug fit is ideal for even cooking.
- Experiment with spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Equipment Needed
- Baking tray: A sturdy tray to catch drippings; a rimmed sheet pan works well.
- Tall metal skewer: Essential for stacking; a wooden skewer can be used, but soak it first.
- Mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken; any large bowl will do.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken; a chef’s knife is perfect.
Variations
- Spicy Shawarma: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with marinated portobello mushrooms or firm tofu for a delicious plant-based version.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint into the marinade for a refreshing twist.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken over a bed of greens instead of pita for a lighter meal.
- Different Proteins: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even lamb for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Pita Bread: Warm pita is perfect for wrapping around the chicken slices.
- Garlic Sauce: A creamy garlic sauce adds a delicious tang.
- Fresh Veggies: Serve with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce for crunch.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles complement the flavors beautifully.
- Refreshing Drinks: Pair with mint lemonade or yogurt drinks for a cooling effect.
FAQs about Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower
As I’ve shared my love for the Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower, I know you might have some questions. Here are a few common ones that I often hear:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I prefer thighs for their juiciness, chicken breasts can work too. Just be mindful that they may dry out faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least four hours. However, overnight is ideal. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and assemble the tower when you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I serve with the Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower?
Serve it with warm pita bread, garlic sauce, fresh veggies, and pickles. You can also add a side of rice or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any sauces or sides you serve are also gluten-free to keep the meal safe for those with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Creating the Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together. The joy of watching friends and family gather around the table, eagerly awaiting their first bite, is truly priceless. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also sparks conversations and laughter. Each slice reveals layers of flavor, making every bite a delightful experience. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary adventures, just as it has in mine. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your efforts!
Print
Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower: A Delicious Feast!
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and visually impressive Oven-Baked Chicken Shawarma Tower, perfect for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 lbs (700–900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground paprika
- 1 ½ tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 large onion (sliced into rings, to hold the skewer base)
- 1 tall metal skewer (oven-safe)
- Fresh parsley, sliced onions, or lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices. Add chicken thighs, coat well, cover, and marinate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking tray, place a thick onion slice at the bottom (acts as a base). Insert the skewer vertically through the onion. Stack marinated chicken thighs one by one onto the skewer, pressing them down firmly to form a tower.
- Bake in the oven for 45–55 minutes, turning tray halfway, until chicken is charred and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). For extra char, broil for the last 5 minutes.
- Let rest 5 minutes, then shave thin slices off the tower using a sharp knife. Serve with pita bread, garlic sauce, pickles, and fresh veggies.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
- Serve with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
