Chicken Shawarma Tacos are the ultimate fusion dish—Middle Eastern spiced chicken meets Mexican-style street food! You get juicy, marinated chicken wrapped in a soft tortilla with crunchy veggies and creamy sauces. It’s bold, fun, and super satisfying. 🌮🔥
🐔 Chicken Shawarma Tacos Recipe
🕒 Time: 45 minutes (plus marination)
🍽 Serves: 4 (makes about 8 tacos)
🌶️ For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken thighs or breast (thinly sliced)
- 3 tbsp plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (just a pinch!)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne or chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
🔥 For the Garlic Sauce (Toum-style or Quick Yogurt Sauce):
Option 1:
- 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves (grated)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Option 2 (more traditional):
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup neutral oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
(Blend into a creamy emulsion)
🌯 Taco Fillings:
- Small flour tortillas (or soft mini pita)
- Sliced cucumbers
- Pickled red onions
- Chopped lettuce or cabbage
- Cherry tomatoes or diced tomato
- Fresh parsley or mint
- Optional: feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese
🔪 Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add sliced chicken, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight). - Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken slices until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Let rest, then slice into strips if needed. - Prepare the Sauce:
Whisk or blend together your choice of garlic sauce ingredients. Taste and adjust lemon/salt. - Assemble the Tacos:
Warm tortillas in a dry pan or microwave.
Layer with lettuce, chicken, cucumber, tomato, pickled onion, and herbs. Drizzle with garlic sauce and sprinkle with feta (if using). - Serve Hot:
Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon or extra chili sauce if you like it spicy!
💡 Variations & Tips:
- Use naan or roti for a more fusion-y twist.
- Add hummus or tahini drizzle for extra creaminess.
- Want it spicier? Add a swirl of harissa or sriracha.
- Great for meal prep—just keep the fillings and tortillas separate until ready to serve.
Chicken Shawarma Tacos are flavor-packed and fun—perfect for weeknights, parties, or when you just want something different. Want a veggie version too?
