Shawarma: The Middle Eastern Classic Loved Worldwide

What Is Shawarma?

Shawarma is a flavorful Middle Eastern street food made from thin slices of seasoned meat—usually chicken, beef, or lamb—that are stacked on a vertical rotisserie and slowly roasted. The cooked outer layers are shaved off and typically served in a wrap or shawarma sandwich with fresh vegetables, pickles, and garlic sauce for shawarma.

The term shawarma originates from the Turkish word çevirme, meaning "turning," referring to the meat's slow rotation as it roasts.

What’s on a Chicken Shawarma?

A chicken shawarma wrap usually includes:

• Thinly sliced marinated chicken (grilled or roasted)
• Fresh tomato, lettuce, onion
• Pickled cucumbers or turnips
• Creamy shawarma sauce or garlic sauce
• Wrapped in pita or flatbread

The unique flavor comes from a fragrant shawarma seasoning, often including garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and turmeric.

How to Make Shawarma at Home

Making shawarma at home is easier than it seems—even without a rotisserie. You can use your oven, stovetop, or grill.

Chicken Shawarma Marinade

To make an authentic chicken shawarma marinade, you'll need:

• Yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon
• Salt and pepper

Marinate the meat for at least 2–4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Grill or roast the marinated meat until it’s cooked through and slightly crispy at the edges.
• Slice thinly and serve in a shawarma sandwich or bowl.
• Top with chopped herbs and a drizzle of garlic sauce.

Shawarma Seasoning: The Secret to Flavor

The signature flavor of shawarma comes from its spice blend. A typical shawarma seasoning mix includes:

• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Coriander
• Cinnamon
• Black pepper
• Allspice (optional)

You can use this blend for chicken shawarma, beef shawarma, or lamb shawarma.

Beef and Lamb Shawarma

While chicken is the most popular option, beef shawarma and lamb shawarma offer deeper, richer flavors for those who prefer red meat. Both are typically marinated in bold Middle Eastern spices—like cumin, coriander, and paprika—and slow-roasted to perfection. Lamb shawarma often has a slightly gamier taste and is especially popular in traditional Levantine cooking, while beef shawarma is hearty, satisfying, and widely enjoyed in wraps or rice bowls. Both versions pair beautifully with creamy tahini sauce or a tangy yogurt-based dip.

Shawarma vs Gyro: What’s the Difference?

Though similar in concept, shawarma and gyros come from different cultures and use different seasonings.

Is Shawarma Healthy?

Shawarma can be part of a healthy diet, especially when made at home. Here’s a look at chicken shawarma calories:

• A typical chicken shawarma wrap has about 400–600 calories, depending on size, sauce, and sides.
• For a lighter version:
  • Use whole wheat pita
  • Add more veggies
  • Go easy on sauce
  • Grill instead of frying

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein: Great source from chicken, beef, or lamb
• Spices: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
• Garlic sauce: Tasty, but best in moderation

FAQ About Shawarma

What is shawarma made of?

Shawarma is made from marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb), cooked on a vertical spit and served in wraps with vegetables and sauce.

What is on a chicken shawarma?

Chicken shawarma includes marinated grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, pickles, and garlic or tahini sauce wrapped in flatbread.

How to make shawarma at home?

Marinate meat with yogurt and spices, then grill or roast it. Serve in a wrap with veggies and shawarma sauce.

What does shawarma mean?

The word comes from the Turkish “çevirme,” meaning “turning,” describing the rotisserie cooking method.

Is chicken shawarma healthy?

Yes—especially when grilled and loaded with veggies. Just be mindful of sauces and portions.

Is shawarma similar to gyro?

They’re similar in preparation but differ in origin, seasoning, and sauces.

Related recipes we think you'll like:

• Middle Eastern street food
• Gyro
• Garlic Sauce