Looking for an easy, flavourful low carb chicken dinner that’s also high in protein? This Grilled Chicken Shawarma brings all the spice and sizzle of the Middle East to your kitchen. It’s juicy, deeply seasoned, and surprisingly simple—perfect for a weeknight meal or meal prep.
🌟 Top Tip:
Marinate overnight for restaurant-level juiciness and flavor. Use chicken thighs for maximum tenderness!
🛒 Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Shawarma
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
To Serve:
- 1/2 cup (120g) cucumber yogurt sauce (e.g. tzatziki)
- Mixed greens or low-carb salad
- Optional: Low-carb wraps, keto flatbread, or lettuce cups
🔥 How to Make Chicken Shawarma (Step-by-Step)
- Mix the Shawarma Marinade
In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all spices. Stir until smooth. - Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken thighs to the marinade. Toss to coat. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor. - Grill or Pan-Sear
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C). - Rest, Slice, and Serve
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips. Serve with cucumber yogurt sauce and greens, or tuck into a low-carb wrap.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 30g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
💡 Handy Tips for Low Carb Chicken Shawarma
- Air fryer user? Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use leftover chicken in a low-carb bowl with cauliflower rice, pickled onions, and avocado.
- Prefer spicy? Add a dash of cayenne or a drizzle of harissa.
❓ Chicken Shawarma FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, but thighs are juicier. If using breasts, reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.
Q: Is this grilled chicken shawarma keto-friendly?
A: Totally! With only 4g of net carbs, it fits perfectly into a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Q: Can I bake instead of grill?
A: Yep! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until juices run clear.
📌 Related Recipes to Try Next
- Low Carb Chicken Tikka Masala (Indian-Inspired)
- Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs (Keto-Friendly Classic)
- Peri-Peri Chicken with Cauliflower Rice