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Savory Döner Kebab Recipe Easy Juicy Tender Slices to Make

savory döner kebab recipe - featured image

A flavorful and easy-to-make savory döner kebab recipe featuring juicy, tender slices of marinated meat slow roasted to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs or beef sirloin, thinly sliced (chicken thighs recommended for juiciness)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt preferred)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • Juice of one lemon
  • Warm pita bread or flatbreads (for serving)
  • Fresh veggies: sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onions (for serving)
  • Garlic yogurt sauce or tahini sauce (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh parsley or mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, chili flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
  2. Add the thinly sliced meat and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a convection oven, set to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
  4. Remove the marinated meat from the fridge. Arrange slices evenly on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Use a roasting rack if available or place the meat on a bed of sliced onions.
  5. Roast the meat for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and edges start to crisp. Check at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for chicken or 145°F (63°C) for beef.
  6. Remove from oven and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in juices.
  7. Slice the meat into thin, juicy strips if not already sliced. Serve warm on pita breads with fresh veggies and your choice of sauce. Garnish with parsley or mint.
  8. Optional: Broil the meat for the last 2-3 minutes for crispy edges, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

Marinate the meat overnight for best flavor and tenderness. Slice meat as thinly as possible (about 1/8 inch) for even cooking and juiciness. Use a roasting rack or bed of onions to keep meat elevated and juicy. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for crispy edges. For dairy-free, substitute yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pita or lettuce wraps. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: döner kebab, savory kebab, chicken döner, beef döner, easy kebab recipe, juicy kebab, tender meat, street food, Mediterranean, grilled meat