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Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Shawarma, a beloved Middle Eastern dish, has captured the taste buds of food enthusiasts around the world. Traditionally made with marinated meats cooked on a vertical rotisserie, shawarma is often served in pita bread or alongside rice, topped with an array of fresh vegetables and rich sauces. However, with the increasing popularity of air fryers, preparing this delectable dish at home has never been easier. This article will guide you through making succulent Chicken Shawarma using an air fryer, allowing you to enjoy this classic without the hassle of traditional cooking methods.

Ingredients

To recreate that authentic shawarma flavour, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Pita bread or flatbreads
• Fresh vegetables (such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce)
• Tahini sauce or garlic sauce
• Pickles (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices. Mix until well combined. Add the chicken to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, although overnight is ideal for maximum flavour.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). This step is essential for achieving a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

3. Cook the Chicken:
Once the air fryer is preheated, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F) and crispy on the outside.

4. Rest and Slice:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips for serving.

5. Assemble Your Shawarma:
To assemble, place a generous portion of the sliced chicken onto a warm pita or flatbread. Add fresh vegetables and drizzle your choice of tahini sauce or garlic sauce on top. Feel free to add pickles for an extra tang and crunch.

6. Enjoy!
Roll the shawarma up or fold it over, and enjoy your delicious air-fried chicken shawarma with a side of your favourite salad or fries.

Conclusion

Making air fryer chicken shawarma at home is not only quick and convenient but also allows you to enjoy a healthier version of this classic dish. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that delightful crispiness often associated with street-side shawarma without excess oil or complicated cooking methods. With this easy recipe, you can bring the flavours of the Middle East to your dining table anytime. Enjoy your homemade chicken shawarma, and don’t forget to experiment with custom toppings and sauces to make it your own!

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