Chicken Shawarma over Pasta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Flavorful, Comforting, and Lighter Than Ever

This Chicken Shawarma over Pasta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a bold and comforting dish that combines the warm spices of classic shawarma with the familiar heartiness of pasta. Tossed in a light, tangy yogurt sauce, every bite is full of flavor without feeling heavy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want something new and exciting, this dish brings the best of Middle Eastern and Italian kitchens to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shawarma Flavor at Home – Fragrant spices infuse the chicken with authentic taste.
Pasta Comfort – A satisfying base that soaks up all the sauce and flavor.
Creamy but Light – Yogurt garlic sauce gives richness without extra fat.
Easy & Impressive – Simple ingredients come together in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the chicken shawarma:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the pasta:

• 8 oz whole wheat or high-fiber penne (or pasta of choice)

For the creamy garlic yogurt sauce:

• 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken Shawarma
In a bowl, combine chicken strips with olive oil, spices, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6–8 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown.

3. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Dish
Divide the cooked pasta among plates, top with warm shawarma chicken, and drizzle generously with garlic yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 340
Protein: 32g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 6g

Tips for Success

• Marinate Ahead – Let the chicken sit in the spices for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
• Use Your Favorite Pasta – This works with penne, linguine, or even orzo.
• Adjust Garlic to Taste – Add more or less garlic to suit your preferences.
• Add Veggies – Toss in spinach, roasted peppers, or tomatoes for extra nutrition.

Why This Recipe Works

By combining lean chicken, fiber-rich pasta, and a tangy yogurt sauce, this dish delivers big flavor while keeping things light. The warm spices and creamy sauce create a satisfying balance of textures and tastes that’s easy enough for a busy night yet impressive enough for guests.

Chicken Shawarma over Pasta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a creative and comforting meal that proves you can enjoy bold, global flavors in a healthy, satisfying way. With tender spiced chicken, hearty pasta, and a luscious sauce, it’s a dinner worth making again and again.