If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with flavor, tender juicy chicken, and vibrant spices, this Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances aromatic herbs and spices with creamy yogurt sauce, delivering a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings the street-food magic straight to your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe features simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making this recipe as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, perfect for that succulent kebab texture.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken deeply.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with a fresh, tangy note.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with bold savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Offers warm, earthy flavor that’s classic in doner seasonings.
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika: Provides vibrant color and a mild smoky touch.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy undertone for complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Brings a hint of sweet warmth to the spice mix.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a fragrant herbal note that complements the other spices.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (optional): Tenderizes the chicken for extra juiciness and softness.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the doner sauce that cools and balances the spices.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lifts the sauce with refreshing acidity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps mellow the yogurt sauce and brings glossiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Reinforces the garlicky punch in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Keeps the sauce herbaceous for a consistent flavor profile.
- 4 pita bread, flatbreads, or wraps: The perfect vessels for holding all the delicious fillings.
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced: Adds refreshing crunch and contrast.
- 1 medium tomato, sliced: Gives juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Provides sharpness and additional texture.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional): A bright herb garnish to finish off the kebabs beautifully.
- Pickled vegetables or olives (optional): Adds tangy complexity if you want a flavor boost.
How to Make Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Begin by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the aromatic spices in a bowl: cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper. This marinade is the flavor powerhouse for your chicken, infusing each bite with authentic doner magic. Adding plain yogurt here is optional but highly recommended for incredibly tender results. Toss the chicken thighs in this marinade until they’re evenly coated, cover, and let them chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour, allowing all those wonderful flavors to develop fully.
Step 2: Make the Doner Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare the luscious doner sauce by whisking together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This creamy sauce is essential—it perfectly complements the spicy chicken with cool, tangy richness. Pop it into the fridge so it’s nice and chilled when it’s time to serve.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You want a beautiful char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing it thinly for that authentic doner kebab texture.
Step 4: Assemble Your Doner Kebabs
Warm your pita bread or flatbreads briefly in a dry pan until soft and pliable. Start by layering the sliced chicken generously onto each wrap. Add crisp cucumber, ripe tomato, and thin slices of onion for fresh contrast. Sprinkle optional fresh parsley or cilantro and pickled vegetables if you like some acidity and crunch. Finally, drizzle plenty of the delicious doner sauce over the top. Fold it up, and your homemade kebab is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe
Garnishes
The magic of this Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe truly shines with fresh, bright garnishes. Chopped parsley or cilantro adds herby brightness, while pickled vegetables or a few olives bring a tangy punch that cuts through the richness. Thin slices of onion offer a satisfying snap and a gentle bite that elevates the overall experience.
Side Dishes
Complement this hearty kebab with sides that balance and enhance the flavors. Classic crispy fries pair wonderfully with the saucy kebab for a filling meal. Alternatively, a light salad with fresh greens, lemon dressing, or even a bulgur pilaf can make the meal feel fresher and lighter. The creamy doner sauce also works beautifully as a dip on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or switch things up? Serve your Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe deconstructed on a platter for a DIY wrap night where everyone builds their own kebabs. Another fun idea is to stuff the chicken and toppings into warm pita pockets or even on flatbread pizzas for a playful twist. Wrap the kebabs in parchment paper for an authentic street food look that’s great for picnics or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover chicken or sauce, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy quick meals later in the week without losing any flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken slices for up to 2 months by placing them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. Freeze the yogurt-based sauce separately if possible, as freezing can change its texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture close to freshly grilled. Add a splash of water or a little olive oil while reheating to keep it juicy. Serve immediately with fresh accompaniments and sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are leaner and will still work well in this Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster than thighs.
Is the yogurt necessary in the marinade?
Yogurt isn’t required but highly recommended because it tenderizes the chicken and helps carry the spices beautifully, making each bite more flavorful and juicy.
Can I make the kebabs vegetarian?
While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can swap the meat for grilled vegetables, halloumi, or plant-based proteins seasoned with the same spice blend to create a delicious vegetarian doner.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
No problem! You can cook the marinated chicken under a broiler or in a hot skillet on the stove. Just watch closely for charring and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How spicy is this Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe?
This recipe has a balanced warmth from cumin and paprika without being overly spicy. You can always add chili flakes or cayenne if you prefer a bit of heat!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the best of Mediterranean street food right into your home kitchen. It’s packed with vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and fresh toppings that make every bite a delight. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner or party dish!
Print
Chicken Doner Kebab Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Chicken Doner Kebab recipe features tender marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served with a creamy yogurt-based sauce, fresh vegetables, and warm pita bread. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal inspired by traditional Middle Eastern street food.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for leaner meat)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (optional, for extra tenderness)
For the Doner Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4 pita bread, flatbreads, or wraps
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Pickled vegetables or olives (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground paprika, ground coriander, cinnamon if using, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade bowl and toss to coat them evenly. If using yogurt, add it now for extra tenderness. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 6 hours, to allow flavors to meld.
- Make the Doner Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill pan if used to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is charred and crispy.
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Once cooked, allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes. Then slice into thin strips suitable for wraps.
- Warm the Bread: Heat the pita bread or flatbreads in a dry pan, about 30 seconds on each side, until warm and pliable.
- Assemble the Doner Kebab: Layer the warm bread with generous portions of sliced chicken, cucumber, tomato, onion, and optional garnish such as fresh parsley or pickled vegetables.
- Finish with Sauce and Serve: Drizzle the yogurt-based doner sauce over the fillings. Serve the kebabs hot with extra sauce on the side, alongside fries or a light salad if desired.
Notes
- For leaner meat, use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but thighs provide juicier results.
- Marinating the chicken overnight can deepen the flavors even more.
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can customize toppings by adding pickled vegetables, olives, or fresh herbs according to preference.
- The yogurt in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken, but it’s optional if you prefer a lighter marinade.
