Chicken Shawarma Panini
Chicken Shawarma Panini combines juicy, marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and melted cheese in a crispy panini. This flavorful fusion dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken Shawarma Panini, Chicken Shawarma Panini Recipe
Servings: 4
Calories: 623kcal
Chicken Shawarma
- Chicken: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
- Shawarma Spice Mix:
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- Juice of 1 lemon
Panini
- Bread: 4 Panini or ciabatta rolls
- Vegetables:
- Lettuce leaves
- Fresh cilantro
- Tomato slices
- Cucumber slices
- Cheese optional: Mozzarella or cheddar cheese, shredded
- Sauces: Garlic sauce or tahini sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken with shawarma spices, olive oil, yogurt, and lemon juice. 
- Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. 
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. 
- Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. 
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. 
Step 3: Prepare the Panini Bread
Step 4: Assemble the Panini
- On the bottom half of each roll, layer the cooked chicken, followed by lettuce, cilantro, tomato, cucumber, and cheese (if using). 
- Drizzle with garlic or tahini sauce. 
- Place the top half of the roll on the assembled ingredients. 
- Step 5: Grill the Panini 
- Place the assembled sandwiches on a preheated panini press or grill. 
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.