Keto Chicken Shawarma Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor while keeping your carb count low, Keto Chicken Shawarma is your answer! This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of spices and marinated chicken creates a dish that’s juicy, aromatic, and satisfying. Perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle, this recipe allows you to indulge in bold flavors without the guilt of traditional high-carb options. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delightful meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delectable keto chicken shawarma, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 2 pounds of boneless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs add more flavor and moisture)
• Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Marinade:
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

For a delicious tahini sauce to accompany your shawarma, you’ll need:

• Tahini Sauce Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons tahini paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste

These ingredients will create a well-balanced dish that is both flavorful and keto-friendly.

Preparing the Marinade

The secret to an unforgettable chicken shawarma lies in the marinade. Start by combining the spices in a bowl with the olive oil and lemon juice. This mixture not only infuses the chicken with robust flavors but also tenderizes it, ensuring each bite is juicy and succulent.

Pro Tip: For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour—overnight is even better!

This extended time lets the spices penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Once your marinade is ready, place the chicken in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover it tightly and refrigerate. If you’re short on time, marinating for just thirty minutes will still yield tasty results.

Cooking Your Shawarma

After marinating, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or oven (set at around 400°F) while you prepare the chicken. If grilling, simply remove the chicken from the marinade and place it directly on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.Alternatively, if you prefer roasting, arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Important Note: Avoid overcooking! Overdone chicken can become dry and tough, which is not what we want for this flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Once your keto chicken shawarma is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Traditionally, shawarma is enjoyed wrapped in pita bread; however, for a low-carb alternative, consider using lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.Accompany your shawarma with fresh veggies like sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and arugula for added crunch and nutrition. Drizzle with your homemade tahini sauce for an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Pro Tip: Prepare extra tahini sauce; it makes a fantastic dip for vegetables or a drizzle over salads!

Conclusion

Keto Chicken Shawarma is an exciting addition to any low-carb meal plan. With its vibrant spices and juicy chicken, this dish promises satisfaction without compromising your dietary goals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table. So go ahead—embrace these bold flavors and enjoy every bite of your homemade keto delight!