The moment the rich smell of marinated chicken fills my kitchen, I know I’m in for a treat. Chicken Shawarma Wraps are my go-to choice when I’m craving a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. This dish brings together juicy, spiced chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a drizzle of creamy sauce—all wrapped in warm pita. Whether it’s lunch on a busy workday or a cozy dinner at home, these wraps do the trick, packing a punch of deliciousness in every bite.
What I love most about this recipe is its incredible versatility. You can easily customize the toppings or switch out the sauces to suit your taste preferences. Plus, with just 15 minutes of prep and an easy marination process, you’ll be indulging in flavors that transport you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Ready to elevate your meal prep game? Let’s dive into making these irresistible Chicken Shawarma Wraps!
Why are Chicken Shawarma Wraps a must-try?
Quick Meal Solution: Perfect for busy weeknights, these wraps come together in under an hour.
Customizable Delight: Tailor your fillings—choose your favorite veggies or sauces to keep it fresh!
Flavor Explosion: The harmony of spices and creamy sauce will tantalize your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing: Great for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love building their own wraps!
Easy Preparation: With minimal cooking skills needed, anyone can whip these up effortlessly.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make extras ahead of time for quick lunches all week; just assemble when ready!
Upgrade your cooking repertoire with these flavorful wraps, and don’t forget to check out my guide on easy meal prep for more tips!
Chicken Shawarma Wraps Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts) – The main protein source; thighs offer more juiciness and flavor.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and richness; consider using a light olive oil for a milder flavor.
- Plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt) – Provides tanginess and tenderizes the chicken; a plant-based yogurt can work for a dairy-free option.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the flavor; fresh is best but bottled can do in a hurry.
- Garlic – Imparts a savory depth; you can use garlic powder as a handy substitute.
- Ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon – These spices create the iconic shawarma flavor; feel free to adjust based on your spice preferences.
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds a kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; taste for balance.
For the Wraps
- Large pita breads or flatbreads – Ideal base for the wrap; opt for gluten-free versions if needed.
- Lettuce (shredded), tomatoes (diced), cucumber (sliced), red onion (thinly sliced) – Fresh and crunchy veggies that brighten each bite; customize with your favorites!
- Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce (for drizzling) – Adds a creamy finish; swap with hummus for a different twist.
For the Yogurt Sauce (optional)
- Plain yogurt – Acts as a base for the sauce, providing creaminess and tang.
- Lemon juice – Enhances the fresh flavors in the sauce.
- Garlic – Complements the wrap beautifully; adjust to taste.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for flavoring the sauce to your liking.
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, you’re on the path to crafting delightful Chicken Shawarma Wraps!
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wraps
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients thoroughly. Add your chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated with the flavorful mixture. Cover and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
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Prepare Cooking Surface: While your chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot to achieve that perfect sear.
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Cook the Chicken: Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or bake it for 20-25 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and juices run clear. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma!
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Rest & Slice the Chicken: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Then, slice it into thin, delectable strips that will fit perfectly in your wraps.
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Prepare Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix your plain yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. This tangy sauce will elevate your wraps to the next level!
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Warm the Pita: For an extra touch, warm your pita or flatbreads briefly on the grill or in a skillet until they’re soft and pliable, making it easier to roll.
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Assemble the Wraps: Lay a generous amount of sliced chicken on each pita, adding a colorful arrangement of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with your yogurt sauce for added creaminess.
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Wrap & Serve: Carefully roll the pita around the fillings, tucking in the sides to secure everything inside. Cut in half if desired, and serve your mouthwatering Chicken Shawarma Wraps immediately for the best tasting experience.
Optional: Add some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to infuse deeply for maximum flavor. Simply whisk together the marinade, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can also chop the vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions) up to 3 days ahead, storing them in separate containers to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the marinated chicken and assemble the wraps with your prepped veggies and sauce. This approach will save you valuable time during busy weeknights, offering delicious, satisfying meals with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma Wraps
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Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 30 minutes. This boosts the taste in your Chicken Shawarma Wraps.
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Meat Temperature: Always check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; it must reach 165°F to ensure safety and avoid dryness.
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Customize Veggies: Don’t hesitate to use seasonal vegetables or your favorites. This flexibility keeps the Chicken Shawarma Wraps exciting and customizable!
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Warm the Bread: Warming pita or flatbreads before assembling helps them become pliable and enhances the overall eating experience.
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Make Ahead Sauce: Prepare your yogurt sauce in advance, but add garlic right before serving to keep its fresh flavor intact.
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma Wraps?
Imagine a vibrant meal that comes together with refreshing sides and delightful flavors that elevate your Chicken Shawarma Wraps to a feast!
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Perfectly seasoned and roasted, their crunchy outside and fluffy inside provide a comforting contrast to the wraps.
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Garlic Hummus: This creamy dip adds a nutty flavor and complements the spiced chicken beautifully; perfect for slathering on the wrap.
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Tabbouleh Salad: A fresh, herbaceous salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur adds a zesty, cooling element to balance the savory chicken.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers and zucchini bring a smoky flavor and a burst of color; they also make for an excellent topping!
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Fattoush Salad: A lively mix of greens, crispy pita, and tangy dressing brightens up each bite, making it an ideal palate cleanser.
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Mint Yogurt Sauce: Drizzling this tangy sauce over the wraps provides a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the warm spices of the chicken.
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Chilled Lemonade or Mint Tea: Both drinks offer a refreshing sip that complements the warm spices of the dish and enhances your dining experience.
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Baklava: This sweet and flaky dessert is a delightful way to finish your meal, giving a sweet end to the savory flavors of your wraps.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Fridge: Store assembled wraps in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separately to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, warm thawed wraps in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
Freshness Tip: Assemble Chicken Shawarma Wraps just before eating for optimal taste and texture.
Chicken Shawarma Wraps Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious wraps in a way that tempts your taste buds!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for grilled balsamic-glazed vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, for a savory veggie option.
Embrace the flavors of charred veggies that complement the spices beautifully. They bring a fresh twist while maintaining that beloved shawarma essence! -
Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt as a substitute for yogurt in both the marinade and sauce, creating a creamy yet dairy-free alternative.
This swap allows everyone to enjoy the wraps while catering to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. -
Heat It Up: Add diced jalapeños or sriracha to the wrap for a spicy kick if you prefer a fiery version.
Awaken your senses with each bite, as the heat mingles with the savory chicken and fresh toppings. -
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle almond butter or peanut sauce instead of tahini sauce to create a creamier, nuttier flavor profile.
This unexpected twist adds richness, bringing new depth to your wraps that will surprise and delight! -
Fusion Style: Introduce Asian-style slaw (cabbage, carrots, and sesame) as a filling for a unique culinary fusion that fuses shawarma with an Asian flair.
The crunch from the slaw combined with the spices creates an enticing contrast that will leave your guests asking for more! -
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of pita bread for a low-carb version that’s just as satisfying.
Enjoy the fresh flavors without compromise, suitable for those watching their carb intake. -
Snack-Sized: Make bite-sized versions using smaller flatbreads—ideal for parties or quick snacks.
Perfect little morsels that pack the same delicious experience into a fun, shareable size! -
Herbal Infusion: Elevate your flavor profile by adding fresh herbs such as mint or cilantro to the filling for a refreshing burst that complements the spices.
These fragrant herbs bring a lively zing, creating an irresistible taste sensation that you’ll love!
Chicken Shawarma Wraps Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Shawarma?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They marinate well and stay juicier than breasts during cooking. However, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option—just be sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
How should I store leftover Chicken Shawarma Wraps?
Great question! Store any leftover assembled wraps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the veggies crunchy, I recommend storing the sauce separately and adding it right before you’re ready to enjoy them.
Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma Wraps?
Very! To freeze, tightly wrap the individual wraps in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes on medium heat for the best texture.
What if my chicken is dry after cooking?
Oh no! If you find yourself with dry chicken, it could be from overcooking. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety while also keeping it juicy. To help with dryness next time, try marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor and moisture.
Are there any dietary changes I should consider for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free flatbreads or wraps. For a dairy-free version, substitute plain yogurt in the marinade and sauce with a plant-based yogurt. Always double-check any spices or sauces for allergens if you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary restrictions.
How long should I marinate the chicken for optimal flavor?
For enhanced flavor absorption, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but I often recommend marinating overnight when time allows. This step ensures that your Chicken Shawarma Wraps are packed with delicious, deep flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Savory Chicken Shawarma Wraps Ready in Just 45 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients thoroughly. Add your chicken, ensuring it's well-coated with the flavorful mixture. Cover and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
- Prepare Cooking Surface: While your chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it's nice and hot to achieve that perfect sear.
- Cook the Chicken: Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or bake it for 20-25 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and juices run clear.
- Rest & Slice the Chicken: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Then, slice it into thin, delectable strips.
- Prepare Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix your plain yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Warm the Pita: For an extra touch, warm your pita or flatbreads briefly on the grill or in a skillet until they're soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Wraps: Lay a generous amount of sliced chicken on each pita, adding lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Drizzle with yogurt sauce.
- Wrap & Serve: Carefully roll the pita around the fillings, tucking in the sides to secure everything inside. Serve immediately.