Chicken Shawarma Burger

Chicken Shawarma Burger

David Venable

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 egg
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1-1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2-1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper
  • 1 tsp pumpkin spice
  • One lemon, zested plus 1/4 cup juice
  • 1-3/4 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/2 cup tahini
  • 4 pitas
  • 3 tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup dill pickles, cut into spears
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced.
  • 1/2 cup dill and parsley, leaves picked

Preparation

To a large bowl, add the ground chicken, egg, olive oil, spices, and lemon zest.

Season with 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Mix with clean hands or a spatula until thoroughly incorporated. Form into four 4 (1/2") patties and set on a sheet tray sprayed with cooking spray. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

To make the tahini sauce, grate the garlic into a small bowl. Add lemon juice and 3/4 tsp salt. Stir to combine before adding the tahini. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium high heat. Add your pitas and grill until nicely charred and warmed through. Remove pitas and add your burgers and let cook on each side for 3–4 minutes until cooked through.

To assemble, cut the edge of the pita off to expose the pocket. You should only have to cut off about an inch. Spread 1–2 tablespoons of your tahini sauce inside the pita. Add 2–3 slices of tomato, followed by the burger. Top it with pickle spears, red onion, and extra sauce. Finish with fresh dill and parsley.

Cook's Notes

The tahini sauce can be made in advance. Keep refrigerated and thin out with two tablespoons of water when ready to use.

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