About this recipe

A deeply flavorful Middle Eastern classic made right in your home kitchen. Chicken thighs are marinated in a fragrant blend of warm spices, then roasted until juicy and caramelized. Serve tucked into warm pita with creamy garlic sauce, fresh vegetables, and a squeeze of lemon — a crowd-pleasing meal that's easier than it looks and absolutely packed with flavor.

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic minced, cumin, paprika smoked, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

2. 2

   Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (or transfer to a Ziploc bag) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. 3

   While the chicken thighs marinates (or just before serving), stir together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic grated, lemon juice, and kosher salt in a small mixing bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

4. 4

   When ready to cook, preheat your oven to ![425°F]. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

5. 5

   Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and arrange the thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not crowd them — use two pans if needed. Roast for 30–35 minutes, until the chicken thighs is cooked through and the edges are deeply golden and slightly charred.

6. 6

   For extra caramelization, switch the oven to ^[broil] for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely so the chicken thighs chars at the edges but doesn't burn.

7. 7

   Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then slice or chop the thighs into thin strips against the grain.

8. 8

   Warm the pita breads directly over a gas flame for 30 seconds per side, or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds.

9. 9

   Spread a generous layer of garlic sauce on each warm pita. Pile on the sliced chicken thighs, then top with tomato, cucumber, red onion, and shredded romaine lettuce. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon, a sprinkle of parsley, and an extra drizzle of garlic sauce. Roll or fold and serve immediately.