Variations

Onions in the marinade A tried and tested method of making the Chicken even more tender is to add half a grated Onion to the marinade. We do this in Lebanese Shawarma and Joojeh Kebab. Cook it on a BBQ or under a grill Follow the same method for marinating and skewering. Use metal skewers if you have them otherwise wooden skewers are fine so long as they have been soaked. Make sure to turn regularly. Cooking time will likely vary so keep an eye on it!

How to serve Chicken Doner

Keep the Chicken warm whilst you prepare the Flatbreads. Warm the Flatbreads on a dry pan or griddle. This will not take long. Top with Salad - I like to add sliced Turnip Pickles or Pickled Red cabbage, sliced Lettuce, Tomato and grilled Sivri Pepper as well as Sumac Onions which are made by simply slicing Red Onions and tossing them in 2 teaspoon Sumac, 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, a pinch Salt, some chopped Parsley and a drizzle of Olive Oil. For a Sauce - I love to make a Garlic Yoghurt Sauce made with a cup of Natural Yoghurt, 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, 2 cloves crushed Garlic, ¾ teaspoon dry Mint, ¼ teaspoon Sugar and ¾ teaspoon Salt. Other Sides including Turkish Rice with Vermicelli (recipe coming soon) and Chips.

Tips for making Chicken Doner

• Chicken Thighs are the best option for this recipe because they are juicy and therefore more tender and flavourful.
• The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, try to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.

Storing Leftovers

In the Fridge

Leftover Chicken Doner Meat will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add to a pan with a couple of tablespoons of water. Cook covered on low heat till fully warm.

How to freeze Chicken Doner

Uncooked - You can freeze the uncooked marinaded chicken or cooked chicken. To freeze the chicken in marinade, wrap the Chicken in cling film or plastic wrap and then into a ziplock bag (squeeze out excess air) or place in an airitght container and freeze for up to 3 months.  When you’re ready to use, defrost the chicken in the fridge. Cooked - Once cooked, let it cool completely then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and squeeze out any excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months.

How to reheat Chicken Doner

From frozen Thaw Chicken Doner in the fridge overnight.  You can also defrost in the microwave but take care to defrost in short bursts so the chicken doesn’t become dry and rubbery.  On the Gas or Electric Hob - Reheat in a pan over medium low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed. In the Microwave - Reheat in the microwave in 30 second bursts. In the Oven- Reheat in the oven for 10 minutes at 180C/ 350 degrees F or just until warmed through.

FAQS

Is Chicken Doner Healthy?

Takeaway Chicken Doner can be unhealthy as it is usually made up of gristle, fat and bones but homemade chicken doner is quite healthy.

Is Chicken Doner meat Keto friendly?

Yes it is, there is a little honey here but it makes up very little of the overall nutritional value of the final product. See nutritional info below. You can skip the honey altogether if you prefer.

Is Chicken Doner the same as Shawarma?

Shawarma is an Arabic word which means ‘turning’. Shawarma and Doner are both made on rotisseries. However, Shawarma is an Arab/Middle Eastern kebab, while Doner is Turkish. Like Doner, shawarmas can me made with Lamb. Shawarma includes toppings such as tahini, tabbouleh, mint yoghurt sauce, hummus, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles.

What is the difference between Chicken Doner and Chicken Kebab?

Chicken Kebabs are often cooked on skewers rather then on a rotisserie and the meat is not cooked slow. Or the alternative is minced chicken kebabs which are very different to a Doner Kebab.

What is the difference between Chicken Doner and Gyros?

Gyros are made in a similar way to chicken doner. The meat is shaved from a vertical rotisserie, wrapped in some sort of bread, and topped with salads and sauces. Shawarma, doner kebabs and gyros are all extremely popular street foods. Doner is a Turkish word meaning ‘turn around’ and Gyro is Greek for ‘circle’. The exterior of the meat or chicken becomes crisp, golden brown and delicious and the interior is juicy and full of flavour. In both recipes, the meat or chicken is marinaded in spices and served in a warm naan, pitta or flatbread with condiments and toppings particular to each country.   Doner Kebab was the first rotisserie kebab recipe. Gyros and shawarma kebabs came later.  Gyro is usually made with pork, lamb or beef.  It is seasoned with a blend of herbs like oregano, rosemary, thyme.  It is garnished with tomatoes, onion and tzatziki.

What is in Chicken Doner meat? 

Chicken Doner is made from Chicken Meat - usually the fatty parts, skin, gristle, fat and bones. However in this homemade version we use only chicken thigh meat.