Can You Put Shawarma Chicken as a Pizza Topping?

Pizza toppings are a very diverse topic, and there is no limit as to what can be put on a pizza. It’s not just the traditional pepperoni that fans of pizza enjoy; they are adventurous and will try anything from pineapple. Can we use Shawarma Chicken as a pizza topping? What about shawarma chicken? Can this Middle Eastern favorite take a slice of the pizza world? Well, let’s go straight to the delicious possibility of fusing these two famous meals.

What Is Shawarma Chicken?

Shawarma chicken is a marinated, slow-cooked dish originating from the Middle East. The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garlic, then roasted on a vertical spit for hours. The result? Juicy, flavorful meat that’s often served in wraps, rice bowls, or on its own.

Why Shawarma Chicken as a Pizza Topping Work?

Adding shawarma chicken to pizza isn’t just possible—it’s genius. Here’s why:

1. Bold Flavor: Shawarma’s rich, spiced flavor brings a unique twist to traditional pizza.
2. Juiciness: The slow-cooked method keeps the chicken tender and moist, a perfect complement to crispy pizza crust.
3. Versatility: Shawarma chicken pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings, from creamy garlic to tangy tahini.

How to Create the Perfect Shawarma Chicken Pizza

Homemade Shawarma Chicken Pizza Recipe

Ingredients

For the Shawarma Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pizza:

• 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup garlic yogurt or hummus (as the sauce base)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup shawarma chicken, cooked and shredded
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp black olives, sliced
• Fresh parsley and tahini for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Shawarma Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, yogurt, garlic, and spices to create a marinade.
2. Add chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Shawarma Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
3. Let the chicken rest, then slice or shred into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
2. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface.
3. Spread the garlic yogurt or hummus evenly across the dough.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and feta cheese over the base.
5. Add the cooked shawarma chicken, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and olives as toppings.

Step 4: Bake

1. Transfer the pizza to a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and drizzle tahini sauce over the top.
3. Slice and enjoy your delicious shawarma chicken pizza!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shawarma chicken pizza combines the best of both worlds—crunchy pizza crust and the tender, spiced flavors of shawarma. It’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a cozy night in.

Cooking Tips

• Bake your pizza at 450°F (232°C) for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese bubbles.
• Use a preheated pizza stone to get that authentic crispy base.

Popular Variations of Shawarma Pizza

1. Garlic Shawarma Pizza: Features a garlic cream sauce, caramelized onions, and mozzarella.
2. Spicy Shawarma Pizza: Includes jalapeños, chili flakes, and a spicy tahini drizzle.
3. Vegetarian Shawarma Pizza: Substitute the chicken with spiced chickpeas or roasted eggplant.

Shawarma Chicken Pizza: A Global Fusion Dish

The fusion of shawarma chicken and pizza showcases how food transcends cultures. While pizza originated in Italy and shawarma hails from the Middle East, their combination reflects the creative possibilities of modern cuisine.

Final Verdict: Should You Try Shawarma Chicken Pizza?

Absolutely! Shawarma chicken not only works as a pizza topping but also elevates the dish to new heights. Its complex flavors and versatility make it a must-try for adventurous foodies. So the next time you’re making pizza, give shawarma chicken a spin—it might just become your new favorite topping.

Related Articles:
What is Halal Pizza?

What is a Grandpa pizza?

Domino’s Brooklyn Style vs. Hand Tossed Pizza

Pizza Hut Vs. Domino’s: 6 Test Analysis