Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a flavorful and satisfying meal inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine. Marinated chicken is grilled or roasted to perfection and then wrapped in warm pita or flatbreads with fresh vegetables and a creamy sauce. These wraps are perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Wraps:

• 4 large pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 cup tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup tahini sauce or yogurt sauce (see below for a simple recipe)

For the Yogurt Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Timing

Making Chicken Shawarma Wraps takes about 15 minutes for preparation, 30 minutes for marinating, and 15-20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grill or Bake: If grilling, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). If baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into thin strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce (optional)

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

1. Warm the Pita: If desired, warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill or in a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
2. Layer Ingredients: On each pita, layer the sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with tahini sauce or yogurt sauce.
3. Wrap and Serve: Roll up the pita tightly to enclose the filling. Cut in half if desired and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chicken Shawarma Wraps (per wrap, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, pickles, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spice Variations: Adjust the spice levels by adding more cayenne or incorporating other spices like sumac or harissa.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The wraps can be assembled ahead of time but are best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a delicious and versatile meal that brings bold flavors to your table. Easy to prepare and customizable, these wraps are perfect for any occasion!

FAQs

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and let the chicken marinate overnight for maximum flavor.

Are these wraps suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat.