There’s something undeniably delicious about Chicken Shawarma Wraps that makes them a favorite in many households. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a delightful way to enjoy tender, marinated chicken enveloped in warm tortillas or pitas. With a zesty garlic sauce and fresh toppings, these wraps are sure to impress at any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Chicken Shawarma Wraps will become a go-to recipe.

Top Reasons to Make Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices creates a mouthwatering experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these wraps in no time.
Customizable: Load them with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, these wraps are a nutritious choice.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

What to Buy

1.5 pounds chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless for easy cooking.
4 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang.
2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice: Fresh citrus for flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for marinating.
3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for a rich taste.
Spices: Ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, all spice or 7 spice, turmeric, ground cinnamon, garlic powder, black pepper.
½ cup sour cream or additional Greek yogurt: For the sauce.
½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
2 tablespoons tahini paste: A nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Extra zest for the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: For the sauce.
Pinch of salt & pepper: To taste.
6-8 medium tortillas, thin pitas, or saj bread: The wraps for your chicken.
Pickled turnips or pickles, thinly sliced: For crunch and tang.
Thinly sliced onion: Adds flavor and texture.
Thinly sliced tomato (optional): Freshness and color.
Chopped parsley: For garnish and freshness.

Hardware & Gadgets

Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Whisk: To combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Skillet or Grill Pan: For cooking the chicken to perfection.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the veggies and chicken.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked through.

Mastering Chicken Shawarma Wraps: How-To

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by taking your 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts and slicing them into thin strips. In a mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of lemon or lime juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the minced garlic. Add in your spices: 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and salt, along with ½ teaspoon each of all spice or 7 spice, turmeric, ground cinnamon, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare your sauce. In a bowl, mix together ½ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt, ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of tahini paste, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the minced garlic cloves. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble Your Wraps

Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to assemble your wraps. Take your tortillas, pitas, or saj bread and lay them flat. Add a generous scoop of the cooked chicken, drizzle with the creamy sauce, and top with pickled turnips or pickles, thinly sliced onion, and optional tomatoes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Step 5: Wrap and Enjoy

Fold the sides of the tortilla or pita over the filling and roll it up tightly. Slice in half if desired, and serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Chicken Shawarma Wraps with friends and family!

Smart Substitutions

Chicken: Substitute with turkey or a plant-based protein for a different twist.
Greek Yogurt: Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
Tortillas: Swap for lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Spices: Experiment with different spice mixes based on your preference.

Cook’s Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavor.
Feel free to add more veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Adjust the spice levels according to your taste; add more heat with chili powder or cayenne if desired.
This recipe is versatile; you can serve the chicken over rice or in a salad if you prefer.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to dry it out. Fresh tortillas or pitas can be added during assembly for the best texture.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my chicken is dry?

Ensure that you do not overcook the chicken. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness. Marinating the chicken for a longer time can also help keep it moist.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store the sauce separately. Just cook the chicken fresh before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can use peanut butter or almond butter for a different flavor. Alternatively, just skip it and add more yogurt or mayonnaise.

Can I freeze the chicken shawarma?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken shawarma. Just ensure it is in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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Let’s Eat

These Chicken Shawarma Wraps are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With vibrant colors from the fresh toppings and the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen, you can’t help but feel excited to dig in. Make them for your next gathering, or just treat yourself to a cozy meal at home. You’ll find that Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire, bringing the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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