Trader Joe's Shawarma Chicken Thighs Recipe

This Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs Recipe makes for a juicy and flavorful meal. Using the pre-marinated chicken packed with shawarma spices, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes.

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Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs Ingredients

1 package Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs (about 4-6 thighs per package)

How To Cook Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs

This recipe provides four simple methods to cook the chicken. The key for all methods is to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

In the Air Fryer: Place the chicken thighs in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Bake for about 18-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra browning, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes.
On the Stovetop: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
On the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the chicken on the grates and grill for 7-10 minutes, flipping once, until you have nice grill marks and the chicken is fully cooked.

Trader Joe's Shawarma Chicken Thighs Recipe — Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs Recipe

Recipe Tips

How do I know the chicken is cooked? The most reliable way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C).
How do I get the chicken extra crispy? The air fryer method will give you the crispiest result. If baking in the oven, switch to the broiler for the last minute or two of cooking to crisp up the skin.
Should I let the chicken rest before serving? Yes! This is a crucial step. Let the cooked chicken rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy.
Can I shred the chicken? Absolutely. After the chicken has rested, use two forks to shred the meat. It’s perfect for stuffing into pitas or for making shawarma bowls.

What To Serve With Shawarma Chicken

This flavorful chicken is the star of a Middle Eastern-inspired meal. Serve it with:

Warm pita bread or naan
Tzatziki sauce or a creamy tahini dressing
A scoop of hummus
A simple Israeli salad (diced cucumber, tomato, and onion)
Rice pilaf or fluffy couscous

How To Store Shawarma Chicken

Refrigerate: Store cooked leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. It’s great for quick meal prep later on.

Shawarma Chicken Nutrition Facts

Calories: 360 kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 750mg

Nutrition information is estimated based on typical marinated chicken thighs and may vary based on the specific Trader Joe’s product.

FAQs

What is in the Trader Joe’s shawarma marinade?

While the exact recipe is unique to Trader Joe’s, a typical shawarma marinade is very aromatic and includes spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. It is savory and warm-spiced, but not typically very hot or spicy.

Can I use this marinade on chicken breasts?

This product specifically uses chicken thighs, which are juicier. If you wanted to make your own shawarma with chicken breasts, be aware that they cook faster and have a tendency to dry out, so you would need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs product itself is gluten-free, making this a great option for a gluten-free meal.

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