CHICKEN SHAWARMA SALAD BOWLS

INGREDIENTS:

For the Chicken Shawarma

• ¾ tbsp ground cumin

• ¾ tbsp turmeric powder

• ¾ tbsp ground coriander

• ¾ tbsp garlic powder

• ¾ tbsp paprika

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper, more if you prefer

• Salt

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 1 large lemon, juice of

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (Private Reserve Greek EVOO)

For the Salad

• 8 oz baby arugula

• 2 to 3 Roma tomatoes, diced

• 1 English cucumber, diced

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Private Reserve or Early Harvest Greek EVOO)

• 1 garlic clove minced

• Salt and pepper

• Sumac (about ½ tsp to 1 tsp sumac)

To serve (optional):

A side of hummus, tzatziki, tahini, or baba ganoush

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small bowl, mix the cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, sweet paprika and cloves. Set aside the shawarma spice mix for now.

2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt on both sides, then thinly slice them into small bite-sized pieces.

3. Place the chicken in a large bowl. Add the shawarma spices and toss to coat. Add the onions, lemon juice and olive oil. Toss to combine. Set aside for now while you prepare the salad (and if you have time, cover and refrigerate for a couple of hours or overnight.)

4. Prepare the salad. Place the arugula, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions in one large mixing bowl. In a small bowl, make the dressing combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper and sumac. Mix well. When ready, pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

5. Heat a little bit of extra virgin olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium/medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the chicken, cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, then toss and cook another 5 to 6 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked (I like a bit of colour on my chicken, so I tend to go a bit longer until chicken is browned and crusted in some parts.)

6. When ready, divide the salad into serving bowls. Add chicken shawarma. If you like, add a side of hummus, tzatziki or tahini. Add warm pita wedges if needed. Enjoy!