Step-by-Step Directions
Marinating the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
Making the Garlic Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix Well: Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat the Grill Pan: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Cook the chicken in the grill pan for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and nicely charred.
- Rest the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before assembling the pockets.
Assembling the Mini Chicken Shawarma Pockets
- Prepare the Pita: Cut the small pita breads in half to form pockets.
- Fill the Pockets: Spread a spoonful of garlic sauce inside each pita pocket. Add a few pieces of cooked chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, and chopped cucumbers.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately with extra garlic sauce on the side.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Grill Marks: Use a grill pan to achieve those beautiful grill marks on the chicken.
- Meal Prep: Cook the chicken and prepare the garlic sauce ahead of time for quick assembly during the week.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi or falafel for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Shawarma: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Different Breads: Try using naan or flatbread instead of pita for a different twist.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Garlic Sauce: Store the garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Pita Bread: Keep pita bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.