First Step: MARINATE THE CHICKEN

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, allspice, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully mixed together into a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss until the pieces are fully coated. For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but ideally 2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you’re in a hurry, you can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes.

Second Step: COOK THE CHICKEN

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer, making sure the pieces don’t overlap too much. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.
2. Finish Cooking: Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through and lightly charred. The chicken should be tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. If you prefer to cook the chicken on a grill, you can skewer the chicken pieces and grill them over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before assembling the wraps. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

Third Step: ASSEMBLE THE SHAWARMA WRAPS

1. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables for the wraps. Slice the cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Shred the lettuce and chop the parsley for garnish. Set all of these aside.
2. Heat the Pita or Flatbreads: Warm the pita or flatbreads in a dry skillet or in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This makes the wraps more pliable and easier to fold.
3. Spread the Sauce: Spread a generous amount of hummus or garlic yogurt sauce in the center of each pita or flatbread. You can also drizzle some sauce on top of the chicken for extra flavor.
4. Layer the Chicken and Veggies: Place a few spoonfuls of the cooked chicken in the center of each wrap. Then, layer on the shredded lettuce, cucumber slices, tomato slices, red onion, and any pickled vegetables if using. Top with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
5. Wrap and Fold: Carefully fold in the sides of the pita or flatbread and then roll it up tightly from one end to the other, enclosing all the ingredients inside. You can use a piece of parchment paper or foil to hold the wrap together if needed.

Final Step: SERVE AND ENJOY

1. Serve the Wraps: Slice the wraps in half diagonally and serve immediately. You can drizzle a little extra garlic yogurt sauce or hummus on top or on the side for dipping.
2. Optional Garnishes: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the wraps, adding a refreshing, zesty touch.