Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, reduce baking time slightly to avoid drying out.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes works, but overnight marination deepens the flavor even more.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and stir before serving.

Easy One Pan Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce

Name: Easy One Pan Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Chicken thighs, boneless & skinless; Lemon, juiced; Garlic cloves, minced; Ground cumin; Chili powder; Paprika; Turmeric; Onion powder; Black pepper; Salt; Olive oil; Tomato paste; Greek yogurt; Red onion, cut into chunks; Olive oil; Fresh parsley and lemon slices; Garlic head; Salt; Olive oil; Greek yogurt; Mayonnaise; Black pepper; Lemon juice; Roasted garlic, mashed; Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Juicy oven-baked chicken shawarma with roasted garlic yogurt sauce. Smoky, tangy, and garlicky—your new weeknight dinner winner!

Easy One Pan Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce 🍗🧄

If you love the bold, smoky flavors of Middle Eastern chicken shawarma, this one pan oven-baked version is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in aromatic spices, roasted to perfection alongside onions, and paired with a creamy roasted garlic yogurt sauce. The best part? Everything comes together in the oven with minimal cleanup! 🙌

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

One pan wonder – easy prep and even easier cleanup.
Smoky, tangy, garlicky flavors that taste like your favorite shawarma joint.
Healthy & customizable – serve it with rice, salad, or wrapped in warm pita bread.
Make-ahead friendly – marinate the chicken the night before for maximum flavor.

Key Ingredients 🥘

Chicken thighs – tender, juicy, and perfect for baking.
Spice blend – cumin, chili powder, paprika, turmeric, onion powder, and black pepper bring authentic shawarma vibes.
Greek yogurt & tomato paste – add tang and richness to the marinade.
Roasted garlic – slow-roasted until caramelized and sweet, blended into the creamy sauce.
Red onion & fresh parsley – for flavor, texture, and a pop of freshness.

Step-by-Step Method 👩‍🍳

Marinate the chicken – Toss boneless chicken thighs in yogurt, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Chill for at least 30 minutes (overnight is even better).
Roast the garlic – Wrap a whole garlic head with olive oil and salt in foil, then roast until soft and golden.
Bake everything on one pan – Spread the chicken and onion chunks on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and roast until tender and browned.
Make the garlic sauce – Mash the roasted garlic into yogurt, mayo, lemon juice, parsley, and black pepper.
Serve and enjoy – Plate with warm pita, rice, or salad, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with parsley and lemon slices.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

Wrap it in soft pita bread with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
Serve over fragrant basmati rice with pickled vegetables.
Pair with a simple fattoush or tabbouleh salad for freshness.

Pro Tips ✨

Marinate overnight for the most flavorful chicken.
Add a pinch of cinnamon and cloves for authentic depth.
Roast extra garlic heads—you’ll want more sauce!

Final Thoughts 🌟

This oven-baked chicken shawarma recipe proves that you don’t need a spit or grill to enjoy the authentic flavors of the Middle East at home. With its rich marinade, creamy roasted garlic sauce, and hands-off cooking style, it’s a dish you’ll want to make on repeat. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing friends at a gathering.

Would you serve this with pita or rice first? 🍞🍚