Spicy Tandoori Chicken Shawarma with Mozzarella Cheese

Indulge in the rich and spicy flavors of this Tandoori Chicken Shawarma. The succulent, marinated chicken is cooked to perfection and combined with sautéed capsicum and onions for a deliciously savory filling. The addition of grated mozzarella cheese and tikka mayonnaise adds a creamy and tangy layer that balances the heat of the spices.

This shawarma is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this Tandoori Chicken Shawarma will surely impress with its vibrant flavors and delightful textures. Serve it hot and watch as it becomes a favorite in your household.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 200 g boneless chicken
  • 1/4 cup yogurt
  • 1 tbsp garlic & ginger, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp cumin powder
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp dry coriander powder
  • 1 tsp tandoori masala
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 capsicum, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Pita or shawarma bread
  • Chilli garlic sauce
  • Mozzarella cheese, grated
  • Tikka mayonnaise
  • Red chili flakes

Directions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup yogurt, 1 tbsp chopped garlic & ginger, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp cumin powder, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp dry coriander powder, 1 tsp tandoori masala, and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
    • Add 200 g boneless chicken to the mixture and coat well.
    • Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
    • Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes.
    • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In the same pan, add the chopped capsicum and onion.
    • Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  4. Assemble the Shawarma:
    • Warm the pita or shawarma bread in a pan or oven.
    • Spread a layer of chili garlic sauce on the bread.
    • Add the cooked chicken pieces, sautéed capsicum, and onion.
    • Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
    • Drizzle with tikka mayonnaise and sprinkle red chili flakes for extra spice.
  5. Serve:
    • Roll or fold the shawarma bread to enclose the filling.
    • Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Tandoori Chicken Shawarma!

Tips:

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavor.
  • Use a grill or oven to cook the chicken for a smoky flavor.
  • Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less red chili powder and chili flakes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Marinating Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour

Kcal: 350 kcal per serving (approximate) | Servings: 2 servings

 

Here are some additional tips and information about this recipe:

Tips for Making the Best Tandoori Chicken Shawarma

  1. Marinate Longer: Marinate the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavor.
  2. Grilling Option: Use a grill or oven to cook the chicken for a smoky flavor.
  3. Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less red chili powder and chili flakes.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

  1. Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, or cucumbers for added crunch.
  2. Sauce Options: Experiment with different sauces like garlic yogurt sauce or tahini for varied flavors.
  3. Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling the shawarma.
  • Freezing: The marinated chicken can be frozen. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief look at the nutritional content per serving (approximate values):

  • Calories: 350 kcal per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g

Possible Questions About This Recipe

  1. Can I use other types of meat?
    • Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
  2. What if I don’t have tandoori masala?
    • You can make your own blend using equal parts of garam masala, cumin, paprika, and coriander.
  3. Can I use whole wheat pita?
    • Yes, whole wheat pita or any flatbread of your choice can be used.
  4. How do I prevent the shawarma from becoming soggy?
    • Ensure the cooked chicken and vegetables are not too wet before adding them to the bread.
  5. Can I make this ahead of time?
    • Yes, the chicken can be marinated and cooked ahead of time. Assemble the shawarma just before serving.
  6. How do I know when the chicken is done?
    • The chicken should be fully cooked and slightly charred, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  7. Is it necessary to use mozzarella cheese?
    • Mozzarella adds a creamy texture, but you can use other cheeses like cheddar or feta.
  8. Can I add herbs?
    • Yes, fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can add extra flavor to the shawarma.
  9. What if I don’t have tikka mayonnaise?
    • Regular mayonnaise with a sprinkle of tandoori masala or your favorite spices can be used.
  10. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling the shawarma.

Conclusion

This Tandoori Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your friends and family!