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Crispy Chicken Thigh Shawarma

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A budget-friendly, easy-to-make crispy chicken thigh shawarma recipe featuring a flavorful spice blend and a broil step for perfect crispiness. Ideal for weeknight dinners with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (5–6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (optional)
  • Optional garnishes: fresh parsley or cilantro, sliced pickles, warm pita or flatbread

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss until every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven broiler on high. Heat a large cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crisp. Flip and sear the other side for 4-5 minutes.
  5. Transfer the chicken thighs skin-side up to a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for 5-7 minutes until the skin crisps further and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure crispy skin. Marinate overnight for best flavor and tenderness but 30 minutes is sufficient. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Broiling after searing is key for extra crispiness. For dairy-free, omit yogurt or substitute with coconut yogurt. To keep gluten-free, serve with corn tortillas or leafy greens instead of pita.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken shawarma, crispy chicken thighs, easy dinner, budget-friendly, Middle Eastern chicken, weeknight recipe, shawarma spice blend

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/crispy-chicken-thigh-shawarma-recipe-easy-budget-friendly-dinner-idea/