Lebanese Chicken Shawarma Stir-Fry With Seasonal Vegetables
A quick and flavorful weeknight stir-fry inspired by traditional Lebanese shawarma flavors, featuring marinated chicken, fresh seasonal vegetables, and classic spices for an accessible and vibrant dish.
Advert
Let’s get cooking.
Cook mode
Scale servings, tick off ingredients, and run step timers without losing your place.
Servings
Originally developed for 4 servings.
Ingredient checklist
Method
- No timer needed
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil (1 tbsp), minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk to form the shawarma marinade.
- 10:00
Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs to the marinade and toss well to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes. (If time allows, marinate up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.)
- No timer needed
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables: slice onion, julienne bell pepper and carrots, slice zucchini, and trim and halve green beans.
- No timer needed
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 05:00
Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet and spread it into an even layer. Let cook undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop color, then stir-fry for another 2 minutes until nearly cooked through.
- 07:00
Add the sliced onion and all seasonal vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry continuously for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp and chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 74°C or 165°F).
- No timer needed
Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- No timer needed
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately over rice, with pita, or your preferred accompaniment.
Chef tips
- Marinate the chicken ahead of time if possible to deepen the shawarma flavor.
- Use a thermometer to check chicken doneness for safety and juiciness.
- Vegetables can be swapped for other favorites or what's in season.
- Serve with a side of garlic yogurt sauce or tahini for additional flavor.
Equipment check
- large mixing bowl
- knife
- cutting board
- large skillet or wok
- spatula or wooden spoon
- measuring spoons
Nutrition per serving
- Calories350
- Protein35 g
- Carbs15 g
- Fat14 g
Tags
Behind the dish.
Overview
Enjoy the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Lebanese chicken shawarma transformed into a quick and easy stir-fry. This dish combines tender marinated chicken with an assortment of fresh seasonal vegetables, all cooked rapidly over high heat to preserve color and crunch. It's a perfect weeknight meal that delivers Middle Eastern flair with minimal fuss.
Why you’ll love it
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Flavorful marinade inspired by authentic shawarma spices
- Uses fresh seasonal vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Perfect for a wholesome and colorful weeknight dinner
Ingredient notes
The key to the classic shawarma flavor is the marinade, which blends warm spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Feel free to adjust the spice level with cayenne or chili powder. Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness. Seasonal vegetables can include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or green beans — choose what is freshest and most vibrant at your market.
Serving & storage
Serve the stir-fry hot over fluffy rice, warm pita, or alongside a fresh salad and a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until thoroughly warmed, ensuring the chicken reaches at least 74°C (165°F) before serving.
Related recipes
Pressure-Cooked Lebanese Lamb Shank with Eggplant and Apricot
◷ 80 minmedium
A hearty Lebanese-inspired dish featuring tender lamb shanks pressure-cooked with seasonal eggplant and sweet dried apricots. The dish balances savory and sweet flavors, highlighting classic Middle Eastern spices, and is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Feb 1
Lebanese Chicken Mujaddara Grain Bowl
◷ 80 minmedium
A wholesome Lebanese-inspired grain bowl featuring fragrant lentils and rice topped with tender, spiced roasted chicken and caramelized onions. This dish combines seasonal autumn produce such as sweet carrots and fresh parsley, making it nutritious and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Jan 30
Lebanese Lamb and Freekeh Stew with Root Vegetables
◷ 140 minmedium
A hearty Lebanese-inspired stew combining tender lamb shoulder, nutty freekeh grains, and seasonal root vegetables slow-cooked to develop rich, comforting flavors. This dish highlights traditional Middle Eastern spices and textures, perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal.
Jan 28