Flavor First™ Culinary Blends

Chicken Shawarma

Featuring Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma
Serves 4–6

Bold, warm spices and garlic-forward aromatics define classic shawarma. Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma delivers that signature Middle Eastern flavor while keeping the seasoning balanced and versatile—perfect for marinating, grilling, or roasting.

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Ingredients

Chicken Shawarma

• 2½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred for juiciness)

• ¼ cup plain whole-milk yogurt

• ¼ cup olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 Tbsp)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2½ Tbsp Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma

• 1½ tsp ground cumin (optional for extra earthiness)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Make the Marinade
   In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma, and optional spices.

2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add chicken thighs and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken
   Choose one method:

   • Grill: Grill over medium-high heat (400–450°F), 5–6 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F.

   • Roast: Arrange on a lined sheet tray and roast at 425°F for 22–28 minutes.

   • Sear + Roast: Sear in a hot skillet until browned, then finish in a 400°F oven.

4. Rest & Slice
   Rest chicken 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

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To Serve

• Warm pita or flatbread

• Chopped romaine or shredded cabbage

• Sliced tomatoes and cucumbers

• Pickled red onions or turnips

• Garlic sauce (toum) or tzatziki

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Optional Vegetarian Shawarma Variation

Shawarma-Spiced Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpeas

Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and dried

• 3 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 Tbsp Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma

• 1 Tbsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Toss cauliflower and chickpeas with olive oil, Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma, lemon juice, and pepper.

2. Spread evenly on a sheet tray.

3. Roast at 425°F for 30–35 minutes, stirring once, until deeply caramelized and crisp at edges.

4. Finish with fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) and an extra squeeze of lemon.

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Chef Notes

• Flavor First™ Culinary Blends – Shawarma is designed for versatility—use it confidently across proteins and vegetables without overpowering the dish.

• Add heat with harissa or crushed red pepper for a modern twist.

• Perfect for bowls, wraps, salads, or plated entrées.