Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

Juicy, spiced chicken wrapped in soft flatbreads with fresh toppings – the Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma Recipe is a homemade version of a Middle Eastern favorite. Nadiya’s style makes it approachable and family-friendly while keeping the authentic flavor intact. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, family gathering, or even a weekend treat that feels like a takeaway at home.

What is Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma?

Chicken shawarma is a dish made with marinated chicken, infused with spices and yogurt, then roasted, grilled, or baked until tender and flavorful. Traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, Nadiya’s recipe simplifies the method for home cooking while still delivering the signature taste – aromatic, spiced, and irresistibly juicy.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Sloppy Joe
• Nadiya Hussain Sloppy Joe
• James Martin Buffalo Chicken Wings

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Easy to make at home – no need for special equipment.
• Full of flavor – marinade is rich with spices and yogurt.
• Family-friendly – customizable with toppings and sauces.
• Healthier than takeaway – fresh ingredients and lighter cooking.
• Perfect for sharing – great for serving in wraps, bowls, or platters.

Ingredients Needed to Make Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

• Chicken thighs (1 kg, boneless and skinless) – juicy and flavorful cut.
• Greek yogurt (½ cup) – tenderizes and adds creaminess to the marinade.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) – helps lock in flavor and moisture.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced) – aromatic base.
• Ginger paste (1 tsp) – adds warmth.
• Paprika (2 tsp) – smoky flavor.
• Ground cumin (2 tsp) – earthy spice.
• Ground coriander (1 tsp) – fresh citrusy note.
• Ground turmeric (½ tsp) – color and mild flavor.
• Cayenne pepper (½ tsp, optional) – for heat.
• Juice of 1 lemon – balances the richness.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – enhances flavor.

To serve: flatbreads or pita, shredded lettuce, sliced cucumber, tomato, pickled onions, and garlic or tahini sauce.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Cling film for marination
• Baking tray or grill pan
• Oven or grill
• Sharp knife for slicing

Instructions to Make Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

• Prepare marinade – mix yogurt, olive oil, garlic, ginger, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
• Marinate chicken – add chicken thighs, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
• Preheat oven/grill – heat to 400°F (200°C).
• Cook chicken – arrange chicken on a baking tray and roast for 25–30 minutes, or grill until cooked through and slightly charred.
• Rest and slice – let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
• Assemble shawarma – fill flatbreads with chicken, lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and sauce of choice.

What Goes Well With Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

• Garlic yogurt sauce – creamy and cooling.
• Tahini dressing – adds nutty depth.
• Pickled red onions – tangy contrast.
• French fries – classic side with wraps.
• Hummus dip – smooth and rich.
• Tabbouleh salad – fresh, herby balance.
• Grilled vegetables – a smoky and healthy pairing.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Chicken Shawarma

Homemade shawarma is easy, but these tips make it even better:

• Use chicken thighs – they stay juicier than breasts.
• Marinate overnight – deeper flavor comes with time.
• Cook at high heat – gives charred, authentic edges.
• Rest before slicing – keeps meat juicy.
• Warm flatbreads – makes wraps softer and tastier.
• Double the marinade – use extra as a drizzle sauce.
• Add variety in toppings – balance freshness with richness.

Easy Variations of Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

• Spicy shawarma – add more cayenne or chili flakes.
• Herb shawarma – mix in fresh coriander or parsley to the marinade.
• Low-fat version – use low-fat yogurt and chicken breasts.
• Cheesy shawarma – sprinkle grated cheese before rolling wraps.
• Shawarma bowl – serve over rice or couscous instead of wraps.

Best Practices to Store Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

• Cool chicken first – prevents moisture build-up.
• Refrigerate in airtight container – keeps for up to 3 days.
• Freeze portions – cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Store toppings separately – to keep wraps fresh.

Best Practices to Reheat Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma

• Stovetop method – reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat.
• Oven method – warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Microwave option – heat gently in short bursts.
• From frozen – thaw overnight before reheating.

How Can I Make Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma Healthier?

• Use wholemeal flatbreads instead of white pita.
• Add more vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or shredded cabbage.
• Reduce oil in the marinade and increase yogurt.
• Use skinless chicken for lower fat.
• Serve with salad instead of fries.

Nutrition Value (per serving – without bread)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 310mg

FAQs

How long should you marinate chicken for shawarma?

Chicken should be marinated for at least 2 hours, but leaving it overnight in the fridge gives the best flavor and tenderness.

Can you cook chicken shawarma without a grill?

Yes, chicken shawarma can be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes or cooked in a skillet until charred and cooked through.

Why is my chicken shawarma dry?

Shawarma can turn dry if it’s overcooked or if chicken breasts are used instead of thighs. Using yogurt in the marinade and resting the chicken before slicing helps keep it juicy.

What toppings go best with chicken shawarma?

Classic toppings include shredded lettuce, sliced cucumber, tomato, pickled onions, hummus, and garlic yogurt sauce for a balanced wrap.

Final Words

The Nadiya Hussain Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful, family-friendly dish that brings Middle Eastern flair to your kitchen with minimal effort. With juicy, marinated chicken and fresh toppings, it’s versatile enough to enjoy in wraps, bowls, or platters. Once you try it, this recipe may become a go-to favorite for both weeknights and gatherings.

Print