Now who doesn't love a whole chicken that's done in forty five minutes?! Embark on a culinary voyage as we unravel the savory tale of Spatchcock Shawarma Chicken—an enticing dish that marries the rich history of Middle Eastern cuisine with modern cooking techniques. From its roots in the vibrant markets of the Levant to the contemporary twist of spatchcocking, this dish is a celebration of bold flavors and culinary innovation. Serve it alongside a nice Mediterranean Salad and you've got yourself a delicious meal.

Roasted chicken in a cast iron skillet with crispy skin, seasoned to perfection. Ideal for a savory homemade meal.

I love cooking whole chickens but due to the time it takes, it's not the most ideal weeknight meal. However, this recipe is perfect. You get delicious results in half the time! And shawarma has always been one of my favorite chicken dishes so combining the two was sure to produce a perfect dish.

Shawarma: The Origins

Shawarma's Culinary Odyssey: Shawarma, a beloved Middle Eastern street food, has a history as rich and diverse as its flavors. Traditionally made with vertically stacked, marinated meats, the art of shawarma dates back centuries, evolving through the Levant region's diverse culinary influences.

Modern Twist: The Spatchcock Revolution Enter the spatchcock technique, a contemporary culinary method that transforms the traditional shawarma experience. Spatchcocking involves removing the backbone of the chicken to create a flattened form, allowing for even cooking and a quicker roasting time. This modern approach not only enhances the chicken's tenderness but also ensures a more efficient infusion of flavors.

Spatchcock Shawarma Chicken Video

If you enjoyed this video for Spatchcock Shawarma Chicken, please subscribe to my Youtube Channel. Click the BELL icon so you can be the first to know when I post a new video.

Why You'll Love This Dish

Intense Flavor Fusion: The marriage of traditional shawarma spices with the innovative spatchcocking technique results in a deeply flavorful and aromatic dish. Each bite is a symphony of spices that transport you to the bustling markets of the Middle East.

Efficiency in Cooking: Spatchcocking reduces cooking time, making this Shawarma Chicken a perfect weeknight treat. The flattened form ensures even heat distribution, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining juicy, succulent meat—a delightful contrast that captures the essence of expertly crafted shawarma.

Versatility in Presentation: Whether served as a show-stopping centerpiece for a festive gathering or sliced into wraps for a casual meal, Spatchcock Shawarma Chicken offers versatility in presentation. Pair it with warm flatbreads, a vibrant salad, or a refreshing yogurt sauce to create a feast that suits any occasion.

Grilled chicken platter with hummus, pita bread, cucumber salad, and lemon wedges on a white plate.

Exploring the Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

Crushed Garlic Cloves: The foundation of the butter rub, these aromatic garlic cloves bring a robust and savory undertone to the marinade. When crushed, they release their essential oils, infusing the butter with a deep garlic essence.

Unsalted Butter: A luscious and rich component, unsalted butter adds a velvety texture to the rub. As it melts during roasting, it envelops the chicken in a golden sheen, enhancing both flavor and succulence.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Zest from one lemon imparts a citrusy brightness, while the juice adds a subtle acidity that complements the richness of the butter. Together, they elevate the overall freshness of the dish.

Shawarma Seasoning: The heart of the dish, this blend of aromatic spices captures the essence of traditional shawarma. Typically including cumin, coriander, paprika, and other Middle Eastern spices, it brings warmth, depth, and authenticity to the flavor profile. If you can't find shawarma seasoning at your local store, I include how to make it in the recipe card.

Whole Chicken: The canvas for this culinary masterpiece, a whole chicken, spatchcocked, allows for optimal absorption of the flavorful butter rub. The spatchcocking technique ensures even cooking, creating a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

While a whole chicken is traditional, you can adapt this recipe to bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure each piece reaches the recommended internal temperature.

How can I infuse more smokiness into the dish?

Consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade for an additional layer of smokiness. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken on a charcoal grill for a smoky outdoor flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to roast. The longer marination time allows the flavors to intensify.

What sides pair well with Spatchcock Shawarma Chicken?

Explore traditional Middle Eastern accompaniments such as a refreshing tabbouleh salad, hummus, or a cucumber-yogurt tzatziki. The vibrant and complementary flavors will enhance the overall dining experience.