If you’ve ever wandered the aisles of Trader Joe’s, you know it’s a treasure trove of delicious and convenient finds. One of my absolute favorites is their pre-marinated chicken shawarma.
It’s bursting with the warm, fragrant spices of the Middle East and makes whipping up a restaurant-quality meal feel incredibly easy.
Think juicy chicken, zesty garlic, earthy turmeric, a hint of cumin, and that unmistakably savory shawarma flavor. And the best part? You can turn this tasty chicken into mouthwatering bowls, wraps, salads, and more! Let’s explore everything you can do with this Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma recipe.
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Key Takeaways
- Trader Joe’s pre-marinated chicken shawarma is a flavor bomb waiting to explode in your kitchen.
- This quick and easy meal solution takes the hassle out of homemade shawarma.
- It’s super versatile – perfect for bowls, wraps, salads, or even pizza!
The Best Ways to Cook Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Since the chicken is already marinated, cooking is a breeze! Here are my favorite methods:
Oven Roasting
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet, toss your chicken on, and roast for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. It’s foolproof, and you can even throw in some veggies to roast alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
Stovetop Sizzle
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chicken and cook for a few minutes per side, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This method is fantastic for getting those slightly crispy, caramelized edges.
Air Fryer Fanatic
If you own an air fryer, you’re in luck! Preheat it to 400°F and cook your chicken for 10-12 minutes. The air fryer makes the chicken super crispy with way less oil.
Ideas with Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Now for the fun part – let’s turn this tasty chicken into flavor-packed dishes!
Chicken Shawarma Bowls
- Base: Choose your favorite – rice (basmati is fantastic), quinoa, couscous… the options are endless!
- Veg Out: Roasted veggies like bell peppers and onions are perfect, but fresh salads with tomato, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta also work like a charm.
- Sauce Boss: Tzatziki is the classic, but don’t be afraid to try tahini sauce, garlic yogurt, or a drizzle of hot sauce for some kick.
Chicken Shawarma Wraps
- Wraps: Pita bread is traditional, but lavash or larger flour tortillas are great too. Warm them up slightly for extra pliability.
- Fill ‘er Up Some hummus, tabbouleh, and a bit of lettuce… go wild!
- Sauce: Same delicious options as for the bowls!
Chicken Shawarma Salad
- Green Dreams: Your favorite salad base – romaine, kale, spinach – anything works.
- Toppings: Get creative! Some olives, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, maybe a sprinkle of chickpeas for protein.
- Dressing: A simple lemon vinaigrette or a creamy tahini-based dressing complements the flavors beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook your chicken in batches for optimal browning and to avoid steaming.
- Crispy Bits: For extra crispy edges, cook the chicken a little longer and let it rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute.
- Top It Off: Don’t skip the toppings! Think fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, a bit of pickled onion, or a drizzle of lemon juice.
Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe
Sometimes, you might not be near a Trader Joe’s or want to customize your shawarma flavors to the max. That’s where DIY shawarma seasoning comes in! Here’s a basic recipe:
Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Coriander | 1 tbsp |
| Paprika (sweet or smoked) | 1 tbsp |
| Ground Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground Black Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Cayenne Pepper (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Instructions
Unlocking Trader Joe’s Shawarma Magic
Let’s face it, sometimes we all need a delicious dinner without tons of effort. That’s where Trader Joe’s and their pre-marinated chicken shawarma come to the rescue! This chicken is seasoned with a symphony of spices – think warm cumin, earthy turmeric, and that little bit of zing from garlic… the flavor is just fantastic.
Let me walk you through how to turn this amazing chicken into a masterpiece. We’ll cover the three best cooking methods and give you some ideas to get those creative juices flowing!
Method 1: The Oven – Easy Peasy
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is great for getting those yummy, crispy edges on your chicken!
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper (less cleanup, yay!).
- Arrange your chicken pieces on the sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). No flipping required!
Tip: If you want extra crispy chicken, turn on the broiler for the last minute or two of cooking time. Keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn!
Method 2: Stovetop Sizzle
- Grab a skillet and add a splash of olive oil. Heat it over medium-high.
- Sizzle your chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Want even more caramelization? After your chicken is cooked, turn up the heat a bit for an extra minute per side.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! You might need to cook your chicken in batches for optimal results.
Method 3: Air Fryer Fan
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pop your chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, leaving some room for even airflow.
- Cook for around 10-12 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Depending on your air fryer, you might want to shake the basket once or twice during cooking.
Tip: Air fryers rock for getting super crispy chicken with minimal oil – it’s a healthier way to indulge!
Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe Nutritional Information
A 3-ounce serving of Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 2g
It’s a great source of lean protein and super flavorful, but do note it can be a bit high in sodium. To balance things out, pile on those veggies and keep portions reasonable!
Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe Storage and Reheating
- Storing: Cooked chicken shawarma will be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer-term storage.
- Reheating: A stovetop or oven is best! A quick pan-sear or a few minutes in a warm oven will revive your chicken nicely. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it might dry out the chicken.
Ideas for Using Leftover Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe
- Shawarma Pizza: A creative twist using premade dough, some sauce, cheese, and your leftover chicken!
- Quesadillas: So easy – just toss some shawarma, cheese, and maybe some onions in a tortilla, and you have a cheesy, flavorful snack.
- Big Salads: Bulk up your salads with leftover chicken for an extra protein punch.
- Simple Sandwiches: Perfect for lunchboxes!
Best Sides for Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe
| Side Dish | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|
| Hummus | Creamy, savory, perfect for dipping pita or veggies |
| Tabbouleh | Fresh, herby, balances the richness of the chicken |
| Baba Ghanoush | Smoky eggplant dip, adds a unique flavor dimension |
| Greek Salad | Classic combo – tangy feta, olives, crisp veggies |
| Lentil Soup | Hearty and satisfying, perfect on a chilly day |
| Fries | Because… fries! Crispy, salty, sometimes you just need them |
FAQs
Is Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma healthy?
It’s a good source of protein and flavorful, but it can be higher in sodium. Pair it with healthy sides for a balanced meal.
How spicy is Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma?
It has a mild-medium spice level, with more warm flavor than fiery heat.
Is Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma gluten-free/dairy-free/etc.?
Always check the label for the most up-to-date allergen info!
Can I add vegetables when cooking Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma?
Absolutely! Onions and peppers are delicious additions.
What’s the difference between chicken shawarma and chicken gyro?
Both are delicious, but shawarma is typically roasted on a spit, while gyro meat is cooked in stacked layers. Flavor profiles are similar!
Can I use Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma in other recipes?
Definitely! Get creative and toss it into stir-fries, pasta dishes, omelets, or even scrambled eggs for a Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast.
Trader Joe’s Chicken Shawarma Recipe Conclusion
Trader Joe’s chicken shawarma is a delicious and versatile shortcut to amazing flavor. Whether you’re craving a quick and easy.
Weeknight meal or want to impress your friends with a Mediterranean-inspired feast, this chicken has got you covered. So get out there, experiment, and let me know what amazing shawarma creations you whip up!
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