Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Fluffy quinoa with crisp cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta, and lemon oregano vinaigrette.
Save Pin Juicy, spiced Middle Eastern chicken shawarma thighs marinated in Lebanese spices, lemon, and olive oil, seared with crispy edges and rolled in pita with garlic Toum.
Developed to maximize clean whole-food nutrition while packing vibrant taste, this Authentic Lebanese Chicken Shawarma Recipe (With Toum Garlic Sauce) relies on chicken thighs, lemon juice & olive oil and garlic , to deliver genuine satisfaction. It is quick, nourishing, and ready in 35 min for stress-free meal prep or energizing weeknight dining.
In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cardamom, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Toss with chicken thighs. **Marinate for at least 30 minutes** (up to 12 hours).
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs in a single layer; **cook for 6 minutes** without moving until charred and crisp.
Flip thighs; **cook for 5 to 6 minutes** more until cooked through (165°F / 74°C). Transfer to cutting board; let rest for 5 minutes.
Thinly slice chicken into ribbons. Spread garlic Toum on warm pita bread, layer chicken, pickled cucumbers, and a few crispy fries; wrap tightly and toast wrap in the skillet for **2 minutes**.
1. Verify Safe Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read digital thermometer in the thickest section of poultry to reach exactly 165°F (74°C). Pulling it the moment it hits temperature keeps lean meat juicy and prevents drying out. 2. Protect Minced Garlic from Burning: Garlic cooks and turns fragrant in just 30 to 45 seconds. Add it toward the end of sautéing onions or aromatics so it perfumes the dish without acquiring a bitter edge. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Toasting the wrapped pita sandwich in the chicken pan for 2 minutes seals the wrap and gives the exterior a glorious crunch.
Excellent for weekly meal prep! Portion into glass meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Enjoy chilled or reheat in a microwave or toaster oven until warm throughout.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? A: Yes! It holds up exceptionally well without wilting or losing flavor over 4–5 days in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I adjust the macronutrients for low-carb or keto? A: Yes, simply increase the leafy greens or healthy fat portion and scale down high-carb starches.
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