Name: Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast; 1 lemon (juiced); ½ cup olive oil; 6 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoons paprika; ½ teaspoon turmeric; 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Every time I think about making Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement. This dish takes me back to my travels, where I first experienced the explosion of flavors that is shawarma. The aroma fills your kitchen, instantly transporting you to a bustling marketplace filled with tantalizing spices. It’s amazing how a simple combination of ingredients can create such a symphony of taste. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these bites are perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great go-to recipe for busy nights. Trust me; once you try Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
31 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon

What Makes This Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites Special

It’s a Flavor Explosion!

One of the first things that makes Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites so special is the blend of spices. The cumin, paprika, and turmeric create a depth of flavor that’s just incredible. You’ll find that each bite is bursting with a unique, mouthwatering taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these bites are versatile. They can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish. You can even customize them to suit different tastes, making them a crowd-pleaser for everyone.

Quick and Easy

Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. The Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites are quick to prepare, taking just a few minutes to get everything ready. After marinating, they bake in the oven while you relax or prepare your sides. It’s a win-win!

Healthy and Delicious

These bites are not only full of flavor but also nutritious. Using boneless skinless chicken keeps the dish lean while the olive oil adds a healthy fat. Plus, with the fresh parsley and lemon juice, you’re getting some freshness in every bite.

Kid-Friendly

If you have picky eaters in the house, Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites might just win them over. The tender chicken is easy to eat, and you can let them add their own toppings. They can make a pita pocket or enjoy it over rice, creating a fun meal experience.

Recipe Ingredients for Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites

The ingredients for Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites reflect a beautiful balance of flavors and nutrition. Each element works harmoniously to create a dish that is both satisfying and healthy. The star player is undoubtedly the chicken, which soaks up all the lovely spices. Pairing it with fresh elements like lemon and parsley not only adds brightness but also a refreshing finish.

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs – This is the foundation of the dish. Using boneless cuts makes it easy to cook and enjoy without fuss.
1 lemon, juiced – Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a tangy brightness that complements the spices beautifully.
½ cup olive oil – A healthy fat that helps to enhance flavor and keep the chicken moist during baking.
6 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic base that elevates the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the spices.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s characteristic of shawarma.
2 teaspoons paprika – Gives a lovely color and a mild, sweet flavor that balances the spices.
½ teaspoon turmeric – Adds a golden hue and a slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Just a hint of sweetness that enhances the overall depth.
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper – Adds a bit of heat to the dish, but feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

Making Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites

Creating your Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites is a straightforward process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s take it step by step and turn your ingredients into something magical. Follow these simple instructions to bring this dish to life.

Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F. This initial step ensures that the chicken begins cooking immediately once placed in the oven, resulting in a juicy interior.
Next, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and allows all the flavors to soak in. You want them small enough to fit nicely into your mouth, but not so small that they dry out.
Place the chicken pieces into a large baking dish. Choose a dish that allows for some space, helping the chicken cook evenly without overcrowding.
Now it’s time to add flavor! Pour in the lemon juice, olive oil, and mix in the garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated. Take a moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma as the spices mingle with the chicken.
Once well-coated, place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 16 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken; it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F. The exterior should have a beautiful golden color.
When the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and toss with chopped parsley. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your dish.
Now for the fun part: serving! You can enjoy these Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites as they are, or serve them in a warm pita with your favorite toppings. I love adding sliced cucumber, tomato, and onion for a refreshing crunch, along with a drizzle of tzatziki.

Things Worth Knowing

Marination: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have time. This enhances the flavor even more.
Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken pieces are of uniform size to ensure even cooking.
Oven Thermometer: If you have an oven thermometer, use it to check the accuracy of your oven’s temperature.
Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it finishes the dish beautifully.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To take your Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites to the next level, here are some pro tips and tweaks. These suggestions will help you adapt the recipe to suit your taste and make the most out of your cooking experience.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. They make for a quick lunch option!
Freezing: This recipe freezes well! You can freeze the chicken before marinating or after baking. Just make sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating: To reheat, place in the microwave for 30-second intervals or in the oven wrapped in tin foil until warmed through.
Serving Variations: Try serving these bites over a bed of rice or in a salad for a different meal experience.
Scaling: This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to fit your needs. Perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping!

Perfect Pairings for Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites

When serving your Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites, consider these delicious pairings that enhance the overall experience:

Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for making wraps or enjoying with the bites.
Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
Tzatziki Sauce: A cooling yogurt-based sauce that complements the spices beautifully.
Fresh Vegetables: Sliced cucumber, tomato, and red onion offer a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
Salad: A fresh salad with greens and a light vinaigrette balances the flavors and adds freshness.
Occasions: These bites are perfect for casual dinners, appetizer platters, or even special occasions like Ramadan.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to your Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites. Thighs are slightly fattier than breasts, which can help keep the dish juicy and tender. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the pieces are larger to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature of 165˚F.

There are many delicious options to serve alongside your Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites. Consider pairing them with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or some rice. You can also offer toppings like sliced cucumber, tomato, and tzatziki sauce to enhance the dish. These combinations will create a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

To store leftovers of your Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be good for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. You can freeze the chicken before or after cooking. Just remember to label the container with the date before placing it in the freezer.

Yes, you can certainly make the Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites ahead of time! Prepare the chicken and marinate it, then keep it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Chicken Shawarma Bites are a fantastic recipe that brings the warmth and richness of Mediterranean flavors right to your table. With juicy chicken and vibrant spices, this dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. I encourage you to try making these bites for your next meal. They’re sure to impress your family and friends with their incredible taste and ease of preparation.