Air fryer chicken shawarma with pita and tahini sauce

Name: Air fryer chicken shawarma with pita and tahini sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h 37 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 10½ oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs; ¼ cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp ground coriander; ¼ tsp turmeric; ¼ tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground cardamom; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; ½ tsp salt; Black pepper to taste; 3 tbsp tahini; 2 tbsp lemon juice; ½ garlic clove; 3 tbsp + 1 tsp cold water; 1 pinch cumin; ¼ tsp salt; 2 pita breads; ½ tomato; ¼ cucumber; ¼ red onion; A few salad leaves; Parsley or cilantro; Lemon wedges

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Main Dish

Very Easy

2 h 37 m

852 Kcal

Want to make an easy homemade chicken shawarma in the Air Fryer? This version, inspired by the famous Middle Eastern sandwich, features chicken thighs marinated in yogurt, lemon, garlic, and spices, then cooked in the Air Fryer until the meat is tender throughout and lightly charred around the edges. Slide the chicken into a warm pita bread with tomato, cucumber, lettuce, and red onion, then top with a generous dollop of lemon tahini sauce. A street-food-style recipe that’s full of flavor and easy to make at home.

Materials

air fryer
salad bowls
whisk
cutting board
citrus juicer

Preparation

Preparation20 min

Waiting time2 h 5 m

Cook time12 min

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, cilantro, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and chili pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
Cut the chicken into thick strips, mix it with the marinade, and cover. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally 6 to 12 hours.
Mix the tahini with the lemon juice, grated garlic, cumin, and salt. Gradually add the cold water while whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Lightly drain the chicken to remove the excess marinade without wiping it off completely.
Place the chicken in the basket without stacking the pieces on top of each other, and cook at 370°/190°C for 20 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through cooking. Cut into a piece to check that it is cooked all the way through.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thinner pieces. Letting it rest helps the juices stay locked in the meat.
Heat the pita breads in the air fryer for 1 to 2 minutes at 320°F/160°C. Meanwhile, slice the raw vegetables.
Fill the pitas with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Add the chicken, tahini sauce, and a few fresh herbs. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

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FAQ ❓

What makes this chicken shawarma recipe unique?

This recipe uses an air fryer, allowing for a healthier version of traditional chicken shawarma while still achieving that tender and lightly charred texture.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally between 6 to 12 hours to allow the spices to penetrate deeply.

Can I customize the tahini sauce?

Absolutely! You can adjust the garlic, lemon juice, or even add herbs like parsley to personalize the tahini sauce to your taste.

What vegetables pair best with chicken shawarma?

Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion complement the savory flavors of chicken shawarma beautifully, adding crunch and freshness.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the pita bread with gluten-free alternatives, and you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of this chicken shawarma dish.

Nutrition

for 1 serving / for 100 g

Calories: 852Kcal

Carbo: 65.1g
Total fat: 37.3g
Saturated fat: 7.8g
Proteins: 54.9g
Fibers: 9.2g
Sugar: 8.7g
ProPoints: 22
SmartPoints: 24

Nutritional information for 1 serving (496g)

Cookware

air fryer

Attributes

Keep refrigerated

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Christelle Gary

As a fitness enthusiast and vegetarian, I love taking on a challenge: making plant-based meals that are packed with protein—without breaking the bank! My mission at Ptitchef? To prove that legumes can be delicious, creative, and truly irresistible. Chickpeas, lentils, and beans better watch out!

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Air fryer chicken shawarma with pita and tahini sauce

Ingredients

Tahini sauce:

To serve:

Materials