Ingredients
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1/2-inch strips)
2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Marinade:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
1 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
1. 1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry, then slice into 1/2-inch thick strips. Place in a large bowl.
2. 2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. 3. Marinate the Chicken: Pour marinade over chicken strips and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2-4 hours or overnight for best flavor).
4. 4. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Cook 5-7 minutes per side, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate.
5. 5. Cook Remaining Batches: Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil if needed.
6. 6. Rest and Serve: Return all chicken to pan or platter, let rest 5 minutes. Serve warm in pita, over rice, or on salads with desired toppings and sauces.
Notes
For maximum tenderness, marinate overnight. Use chicken thighs for juiciest results; breasts work too but cook faster to avoid dryness. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure a good sear. Leftovers keep in fridge 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet for best texture. Serve with tahini sauce, garlic sauce, tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and pickles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if served without pita), Dairy-Free option (use plant-based yogurt or omit yogurt)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 5 oz chicken)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg