5-Ingredient Lebanese Shawarma Chicken

Ingredients

• id: chicken_thighs metric: 800g imperial: 1.75 lb name: boneless chicken thighs, sliced

• id: shawarma_spice metric: 3 tbsp imperial: 3 tbsp name: shawarma spice blend

• id: yogurt metric: 200g imperial: 3/4 cup name: Greek yogurt

• id: lemon metric: 2 lemons imperial: 2 lemons name: lemons, juiced

• id: olive_oil metric: 60ml imperial: 1/4 cup name: extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Slice the {chicken_thighs} into thin strips against the grain. This ensures tender, easy-to-eat pieces that cook quickly and evenly.

2. In a bowl, combine the {shawarma_spice}, half the {lemon} juice, and half the {olive_oil} to create a marinade. Add the chicken strips and mix thoroughly.

3. Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.

4. Heat the remaining {olive_oil} in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken strips for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Meanwhile, mix the {yogurt} with the remaining {lemon} juice and a pinch of salt to create a cooling sauce.

6. Serve the hot shawarma chicken immediately with the lemon yogurt sauce, warm pita bread, and fresh vegetables for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Tips

Spice Blend: Look for authentic shawarma spice blend containing cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. If unavailable, mix 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp paprika, and 1 tbsp ground coriander.

Chicken Cut: Thighs stay more moist than breast meat during cooking and have better flavor. Slice thinly for the most authentic texture.

Marinating Time: Minimum 20 minutes, but longer marinating develops more complex flavors. The acid in lemon juice helps tenderize the meat.

High Heat Cooking: Cook over medium-high heat to get good caramelization while ensuring the spices don't burn.

Serving Authentic: Traditionally served in pita with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and pickles. The yogurt sauce provides cooling contrast to the warm spices.

Make-Ahead Option: Chicken can be marinated overnight for maximum flavor. Cook just before serving for best texture and temperature.