Chicken Shawarma Creamy Garlic (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Shawarma

01 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
04 - 2 teaspoons ground paprika
05 - 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
09 - Salt and pepper, to taste
10 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

→ Creamy Garlic Sauce

11 - ½ cup Greek yogurt
12 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
13 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
14 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
15 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Garnish and Serving

16 - ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
17 - Warm pita bread or flatbread
18 - Sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, pickled turnips (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth. Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them, ensuring even coating. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
02 - Chop fresh parsley for garnish and slice vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers. Warm pita bread or flatbread before serving. Preheat grill, oven, or skillet based on cooking method.
03 - Preheat grill to medium-high. Place marinated chicken on the grill, cooking 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a smoky flavor, ensure edges are slightly charred.
04 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between pieces. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for 2 minutes at the end for crispy edges.
05 - Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Reduce heat to low and cover for 2 minutes to lock in moisture.
06 - In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to blend flavors.
07 - Slice cooked chicken and serve in warm pita bread or flatbread. Garnish with parsley and add optional vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickled turnips. Drizzle garlic sauce over the top before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.
02 - Serve with pickled vegetables for a tangy balance to the creamy sauce.