Delicious Loaf Pan Chicken Shawarma Recipe at Home

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The aromatic spices create a mouthwatering experience that transports you straight to the streets of the Middle East.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it in a wrap, on a salad, or with rice, this chicken is perfect for any meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your meal planning a breeze!

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends? Look no further than this delightful Loaf Pan Chicken Shawarma recipe! Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a symphony of spices, baked to perfection, and ready to be devoured. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of flavors that will make your kitchen the talk of the town!

Ingredients

• 3 lbs (1,360.78 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp (42.61 g) olive oil
• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cardamom
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Detailed Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil. Make sure each piece is well-coated to lock in the flavors.
2. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, garlic powder, salt, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the spice blend.
3. Next, arrange the marinated chicken thighs tightly in a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This will help the chicken cook evenly and retain its moisture.
4. Cover the loaf pan with parchment paper and place another loaf pan on top. Weigh it down with heavy cans to ensure the chicken is pressed down. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This step is crucial for infusing the flavors!
5. Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Once preheated, remove the weights and the parchment paper from the top of the loaf pan.
6. Bake the chicken in the oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC). The aroma will be irresistible!
7. After baking, let the chicken cool for a few minutes. Pour the juices from the pan into a bowl (don’t discard this liquid gold!).
8. Carefully flip the chicken onto a cutting board and slice it thinly. Drizzle some of the reserved juices over the sliced chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Your Loaf Pan Chicken Shawarma is now ready to shine! Here are some fun and creative ways to present and serve this delicious dish:

• Wrap It Up: Serve the sliced chicken in warm pita bread or flatbreads with fresh veggies, tahini sauce, and a sprinkle of parsley for a delightful wrap.
• Salad Delight: Create a vibrant salad by placing the sliced chicken over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.
• Rice Bowl: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, topped with roasted vegetables and a dollop of yogurt for a hearty meal.
• Mezze Platter: Include the chicken as part of a mezze platter with hummus, baba ganoush, olives, and pita chips for a fun sharing experience.

Storage and Shelf Life

Got leftovers? No problem! Store your Loaf Pan Chicken Shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the sliced chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.
2. How spicy is this recipe? It’s not spicy at all! The spices are aromatic rather than hot, making it family-friendly.
3. Can I marinate the chicken overnight? Absolutely! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
4. What can I substitute for olive oil? You can use avocado oil or any neutral oil of your choice.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free!
6. Can I add more spices? Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste! Add more paprika for smokiness or cayenne for heat.
7. What should I serve with this dish? It pairs well with rice, salads, or in wraps with fresh veggies.
8. Can I cook this on the grill? Yes, you can grill the marinated chicken thighs for a smoky flavor!
9. How do I know when the chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC).
10. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use lamb or beef, but cooking times may vary.