Chicken Shawarma Pita Pockets with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings 4 servings

Calories 650

Enjoy flavorful chicken shawarma tucked into pita pockets, topped with fresh vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce for a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp lemon juice
7 cloves garlic (4 for chicken, 3 for sauce, minced or grated)
1.5 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp turmeric
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.5 tsp black pepper
pinch cayenne (optional)
pinch cardamom (optional)
0.5 cup mayonnaise
0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil

Pita Breads and Fillings

4 large pita breads (or 8 small)
to taste shredded lettuce
to taste sliced tomatoes
to taste dill pickles
optional sliced red onion
to taste chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Toss chicken with yogurt, oil, lemon, garlic, and spices. Marinate 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt for the garlic sauce and chill.
Prep fillings: shred lettuce, slice tomatoes, pickles, and red onion; warm pita just before serving.
Heat a grill pan, skillet, or grill over medium-high and lightly oil.
Cook marinated chicken until deeply browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Cut warm pita into pockets, layer with lettuce, tomato, pickles, chicken, garlic sauce, and parsley.

Notes

Marinate the chicken overnight for more flavor and serve immediately for best results.

Calories: 650kcal

Cost: $15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Keyword: Chicken, Pita, Shawarma