The first bite of a Chicken Shawarma Wrap transports me straight to the bustling streets of a lively market. The tantalizing aroma of marinated chicken sizzling away on the grill mingles with the warm scent of fresh lavash, creating a sensory delight that’s simply irresistible. My love for this dish started during a summer trip abroad, but creating it at home brings that same excitement right into my kitchen.
What I adore about this Chicken Shawarma Wrap recipe is its delightful simplicity—you can customize every aspect to suit your taste! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated with aromatic spices, wrapped up with creamy garlic sauce, and topped with fresh veggies, making it a versatile meal the whole family will love. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests, these wraps are sure to become a staple in your home. Join me as we dive into this easy recipe that captures the essence of authentic Middle Eastern flavors while providing satisfying comfort in every bite!
Why is this Chicken Shawarma Wrap a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices creates a mouthwatering profile that genuinely shines with every bite.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or sauces to make it uniquely yours—it’s as flexible as your culinary creativity!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these wraps at get-togethers, and watch them disappear—everyone loves a good shawarma!
Texture Harmony: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the tender chicken, cool veggies, and creamy sauce—it’s a texture lover’s dream!
Elevate your meal with a side of hummus for a perfect pairing that enhances your cooking experience!
Chicken Shawarma Wrap Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Use skin-on for juiciness; boneless, skinless thighs are a good substitute.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture for marination; can be replaced with vegetable oil.
• Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Turmeric) – Provide flavor depth; adjust based on personal preference or availability.
• Salt & Pepper – Crucial seasoning agents; adjust to taste.
• Sugar – Balances spices; honey works as a great substitution.
• Tomato Paste – Enhances flavor and moisture; can be substituted with a small amount of ketchup if needed.
For the Wrap
• Lavash (or alternative) – Acts as your wrap base; homemade or store-bought flatbreads, tortillas, or pita are all excellent choices.
For the Garlic Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; can use low-fat for a lighter sauce.
• Yogurt – Provides tang; Greek yogurt works well for a thicker sauce.
• Grated Garlic – Infuses flavor; adjust amount for your desired intensity.
• Lemon Juice – Adds freshness; freshly squeezed is best for flavor.
• Parsley – Brightens the sauce; feel free to swap with cilantro if preferred.
For the Toppings
• Red Onion – Delivers crunch and flavor; pickled red onions can elevate the tanginess.
• Sumac – Adds a lovely tang; lemon zest can be used as a substitute.
• Lettuce, Pickles, Tomatoes, Fries – Customize to your liking; consider cucumbers or hot sauce for extra flair.
These ingredients come together to create a delicious Chicken Shawarma Wrap that you and your loved ones will devour. Enjoy that burst of flavor wrapped up in every bite!
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wrap
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Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with salt, pepper, spices, sugar, tomato paste, and olive oil. Make sure each piece is evenly coated and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
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Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and has a nice char. Look for that golden-brown color for the best texture.
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Prepare Garlic Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency, then adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
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Prepare Sumac Onions: In a small bowl, toss together sliced red onion with sumac and lemon juice. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Assemble Wrap: Warm the lavash or your choice of wrap. Spread a generous amount of garlic sauce on it, then layer on lettuce, cooked chicken, sumac onions, pickles, tomatoes, and fries. Roll it tightly like a burrito or simply fold it over.
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Serve: Enjoy the wrap warm, savoring all those delicious flavors combined!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra sumac on top for an enticing finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma Wraps are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully. Simply combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl, coat the chicken, cover, and refrigerate. You can also prepare the garlic sauce and sumac onions ahead of time; they will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the marinated chicken as instructed, assemble the wraps with prepped ingredients, and enjoy that delicious homemade taste. This way, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready with minimal effort, ideal for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma Wrap
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Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavor, enhancing every bite of your Chicken Shawarma Wrap.
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Skillet Searing: Using a cast-iron skillet improves browning and gives a lovely char to the chicken, creating a more authentic taste.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking too much chicken at once can steam it instead of searing; cook in batches for that perfect texture.
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Garlic Sauce Balance: Adjust the garlic sauce to your taste—add more garlic for a bolder flavor, or use less for a lighter touch.
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Freshness Matters: Always opt for fresh veggies and herbs; they elevate the entire wrap and add refreshing crunch.
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Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings—experiment with seasonal veggies or your favorite sauces for a personal touch!
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma Wrap?
To complete your feast, think of sides that beautifully complement the flavors bursting from your savory wrap.
- Crispy Fries: These golden delights offer a crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping into any leftover garlic sauce.
- Tangy Tabbouleh: This fresh, herbaceous salad brings brightness and a zesty flair, balancing the rich flavors of the wrap.
- Hummus Platter: Serve a creamy hummus with warm pita; the smooth texture and depth of flavor make a delightful pairing.
- Cooling Yogurt Sauce: A side of plain yogurt mixed with cucumber and mint provides refreshing relief from the warm spices, enhancing every bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add a touch of sweetness and earthiness, making your plate both vibrant and fulfilling.
- Mint Lemonade: A refreshing drink like mint lemonade offers a bright, citrusy burst that ties together the meal beautifully.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These tender bites add another layer of Middle Eastern flavor to your meal, creating an authentic dining experience.
- Fattoush Salad: A crunchy salad packed with crispy pita chips and fresh vegetables that will keep things light yet satisfying on your plate.
- Olives and Pickles: A small dish of assorted olives or pickles adds a briny touch, balancing the flavors of your flavorful wrap beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma Wrap
Fridge: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They taste best when enjoyed fresh, but reheating can revive flavors.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, wrap each Chicken Shawarma Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen wraps in a skillet over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Assembly Tip: If preparing wraps in advance, wait to add fresh veggies and sauces until just before serving to maintain their crunch and freshness.
Chicken Shawarma Wrap Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Chicken Shawarma Wrap with these fun variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the yogurt in the garlic sauce with coconut yogurt or a cashew-based alternative for a dairy-free twist.
This swap gives the sauce a delightful creaminess without the dairy, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. -
Grain-Free: Use lettuce wraps instead of lavash for a lighter, low-carb option.
Simply take large romaine or butter lettuce leaves and pile in all your delicious fillings for a refreshing crunch. -
Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!
These fiery elements will elevate your shawarma to another level, making every bite a flavorful adventure. -
Vegetarian: Swap chicken with falafel or roasted chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
This not only maintains the wrap’s flavor profile but also provides a satisfying protein punch for non-meat eaters. -
Herbaceous Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or cilantro into the garlic sauce for a fresh taste.
The added herbs will brighten up the sauce and enhance the overall flavor profile of your wrap. -
Sweet & Savory: Top with sliced figs or dried cranberries for a uniquely sweet element.
This contrast between savory chicken and a touch of sweetness will surprise and delight your taste buds. -
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture.
Not only do they provide a satisfying crunch, but they also offer a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. -
Sumac Substitute: If you can’t find sumac, use lemon zest to replicate that lovely tang.
This simple swap will keep your Chicken Shawarma Wrap zesty and delicious without losing the essence of the dish.
Chicken Shawarma Wrap Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for my Chicken Shawarma Wrap?
Absolutely, I recommend using skin-on, boneless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can work too. Just note that breasts may require slightly less cooking time.
How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma Wraps?
To store your wraps, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Wrapping them tightly helps retain moisture. For best results, reheat in a skillet to regain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma Wraps? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! First, wrap each Chicken Shawarma Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What can I do if the chicken isn’t browning properly in the skillet?
If you find that your chicken isn’t browning, it may be due to overcrowding the skillet. Make sure to cook in batches to allow enough space for caramelization. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. Consider using a cast-iron skillet for the best searing results!
Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind for this recipe?
Yes, if you are concerned about allergies, ensure that your mayonnaise and yogurt are free of any allergens specific to your needs, such as dairy or eggs. For those looking for a lower-carb option, you can use lettuce wraps instead of lavash, making it a delicious and healthy alternative!
How should I select ripe vegetables for my wrap?
When choosing vegetables like tomatoes and lettuce, look for vibrant colors and firmness. For tomatoes, seek those that are slightly soft but not mushy, while lettuce should be crisp and fresh. Consider adding some crunch with cucumbers or the zing of pickled veggies!
Savor Homemade Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with salt, pepper, spices, sugar, tomato paste, and olive oil. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 8–12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked and golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and parsley until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a small bowl, toss sliced red onion with sumac and lemon juice. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Warm the lavash, spread garlic sauce, and layer with lettuce, cooked chicken, sumac onions, pickles, tomatoes, and fries. Roll tightly or fold over.
- Serve warm and enjoy all the flavors!