Description
This Delicious Chicken Shawarma Stuffed Pita recipe features tender, flavorful marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and stuffed inside warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and creamy tahini sauce. A perfect Middle Eastern-inspired meal that is easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant spices and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 2 tablespoons Shawarma Spice Blend (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 3-4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Assembly
- 4-6 pieces Pita Bread
- 2 cups Fresh Vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
- 0.5 cup Tahini Sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the shawarma spice blend, minced garlic, olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors infuse.
- Preheat Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it directly on the grill or on a baking sheet if using the oven.
- Grill or Bake: Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side if grilling, or bake for 10-15 minutes in the oven, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest and Slice: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice it into thin strips for stuffing.
- Warm the Pita: Warm your pita bread slightly in the oven or on the grill to make it pliable and enhance flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Layer the sliced chicken and fresh vegetables inside the pita bread. Drizzle with creamy tahini sauce to add nuttiness and moisture.
- Serve: Fold the pita in half or roll it up carefully and serve immediately for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option, though thighs yield more juiciness.
- Add pickled vegetables or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Use gluten-free pita bread for gluten-intolerant diets.
- Tahini sauce can be homemade or store-bought.
