Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 slices (1 large pizza)
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Middle Eastern fusion
Calories: ~320 per slice
This shawarma pizza recipe combines the bold, spiced flavors of classic shawarma with the cheesy comfort of homemade pizza. It features juicy marinated chicken, creamy garlic sauce, melty mozzarella, and soft flatbread or pizza dough baked until golden and crispy.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or party snacks, this pizza is quick, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Shawarma Pizza
- Quick and easy to make in under 40 minutes
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Packed with bold shawarma spices
- Crispy base with juicy, flavorful topping
- Perfect for sharing or meal prep
What Is Shawarma Pizza?
Shawarma pizza is a fusion dish inspired by traditional Middle Eastern shawarma and Italian pizza. Instead of tomato sauce, it uses garlic sauce or yogurt sauce, then layers spiced chicken, onions, and cheese on a crispy base.
The result is a savory, creamy, and slightly smoky pizza that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Shawarma
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Pizza Base
- 1 large pizza dough or flatbread
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup garlic sauce (tou m) or thick yogurt sauce
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Toppings After Baking (Optional but Recommended)
- Chopped parsley
- Pickles
- Extra garlic sauce drizzle
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl – Used to combine the shawarma marinade evenly with the chicken so every piece is well coated.
- Knife – Helps slice chicken and onions thinly for fast, even cooking and better texture on the pizza.
- Cutting board – Provides a safe, stable surface for preparing all ingredients.
- Large pan or skillet – Used to cook the marinated chicken until browned and slightly crispy. This adds authentic shawarma flavor.
- Baking tray or pizza pan – Holds the pizza dough and ensures even heat distribution in the oven for a crispy base.
- Oven – Bakes the pizza at high temperature to melt the cheese and create a golden crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shawarma Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, and all the spices.
Add the sliced chicken and mix well until fully coated.
Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Base
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
Place the pizza dough on a baking tray.
Spread a generous layer of garlic sauce over the base instead of tomato sauce.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
Add the cooked shawarma chicken and sliced onions.
Add tomatoes if using.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until:
- The cheese is melted and bubbly
- The crust is golden and crispy
Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings
Remove from the oven and top with:
- Chopped parsley
- Pickles
- Extra garlic sauce drizzle
Slice and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Shawarma Pizza
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results
- Don’t overload with sauce to keep the crust crispy
- Pre-cook the chicken to avoid soggy pizza
- Bake on the lowest oven rack for a crisp bottom
Variations and Substitutions
- Beef shawarma pizza: Use spiced ground beef or sliced steak
- Vegetarian version: Use mushrooms, chickpeas, or roasted cauliflower
- Low-carb option: Use a cauliflower pizza base
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and garlic tahini sauce
What to Serve With Shawarma Pizza
- Fresh cucumber yogurt salad
- Hummus and pita
- French fries or potato wedges
- Simple green salad
Storage and Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 1 month
Reheating methods:
- Oven: 180°C for 5–7 minutes (best for crispy crust)
- Pan: Heat on low with a lid to keep cheese melty
- Microwave: Quick but crust will be softer
Nutrition Benefits
- High in protein from chicken and cheese
- Contains healthy fats from yogurt and olive oil
- Can be made low-carb with alternative crust
- Balanced meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables
Learn More:
- Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe (Rich, Cheesy & Comforting)
- Leftover Potato Patties (Crispy, Golden & Ready in 20 Minutes)
- Simple Crispy Fried Chicken with Golden Potato Wedges & Fresh Salad
Recipe Card (Quick Summary)
Name: Shawarma Pizza
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions (Quick View)
- Marinate chicken with yogurt, oil, and spices.
- Cook chicken in a hot pan until browned.
- Spread garlic sauce on pizza dough.
- Add cheese, chicken, and onions.
- Bake at 220°C for 12–15 minutes.
- Top with parsley, pickles, and garlic sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just toss it in the shawarma spices and heat in a pan for flavor.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella melts best, but you can mix it with cheddar for extra flavor.
Can I make this without an oven?
Yes, cook it in a covered pan on low heat until the cheese melts and the base crisps.
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