Shawarma Chicken Wraps with Garlic Sauce

Shawarma Chicken Wraps is a popular street food dish found throughout the Middle East. Known for its tender, spiced meat wrapped in warm flatbread and garnished with a variety of fresh vegetables, shawarma has become a beloved meal worldwide. The dish boasts a complex flavor profile thanks to the combination of spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and coriander. Pair this savory chicken with a creamy garlic sauce, and you have a wrap that’s flavorful, rich, and absolutely irresistible.

In this guide, we’ll break down every aspect of making Shawarma Chicken Wraps with Garlic Sauce from scratch, including tips on preparation, a comprehensive ingredient list, health benefits, and variations to suit your preferences. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or a seasoned cook looking for more insight, this ultimate recipe guide will equip you with everything you need.

Ingredients for Shawarma Chicken Wraps

For the Shawarma Chicken

• 500 g (1 lb) chicken thighs or breast, cut into strips
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

For Serving

• 4 pita or flatbreads
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced cucumbers
• Sliced red onions
• Shredded lettuce
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 2 hours for marination)
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30-50 minutes
• Kcal per Serving: ~480 kcal

Directions to Prepare Shawarma Chicken Wraps with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To make the juiciest and most flavorful chicken shawarma, marinating is key. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the Chicken: Cut the chicken into strips to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption. Add the chicken strips to the marinade.
3. Toss to Coat: Toss the chicken in the marinade until every strip is well coated. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure that the chicken is evenly covered in the spice mixture.
4. Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors will develop.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is an essential component of a great shawarma wrap. It adds richness and a burst of garlic flavor that perfectly complements the spices in the chicken.

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Whisk Until Smooth: Use a whisk to combine all the ingredients until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
3. Chill: Cover the sauce and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Chilling will help the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Now that the chicken is marinated and the sauce is ready, it’s time to cook the chicken to perfection.

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.
2. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken strips in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges.
3. Check for Doneness: The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The outside should be golden brown with slight char marks for an authentic shawarma taste.

Step 4: Warm the Flatbreads

Warm pita or flatbreads are essential for making shawarma wraps. They should be soft and flexible to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

1. Heat in a Pan: Warm the pita or flatbreads in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are soft and warm.
2. Alternative Heating Methods: You can also warm the flatbreads in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Step 5: Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

Assembling the wraps is the most fun part of the process, where you get to see all your efforts come together into a delicious meal.

1. Lay Out the Flatbread: Place the warmed flatbread on a clean surface or a plate.
2. Add the Chicken: Spoon some of the cooked chicken onto the center of the flatbread. Aim for an even layer of chicken to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of flavor.
3. Add the Veggies: Top the chicken with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and shredded lettuce. You can adjust the amounts to your preference.
4. Drizzle with Garlic Sauce: Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the vegetables and chicken. If you love garlic, don’t be shy!
5. Optional Garnish: Add some fresh parsley for an added pop of color and flavor.
6. Wrap It Up: Fold in the sides of the flatbread, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a wrap.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the shawarma wraps immediately while the chicken is warm and the flatbread is soft. These wraps are great on their own or can be paired with a side of hummus, tabbouleh, or pickled vegetables for a complete Middle Eastern-inspired meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Shawarma Chicken Wraps

1. Marinating Time Matters

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 2 hours. The marinade penetrates the meat, infusing it with flavor and ensuring tender, juicy chicken.

2. Use Fresh Spices

To achieve that authentic shawarma taste, make sure your spices are fresh. Ground spices lose their potency over time, so it’s best to use fresh, high-quality spices for the marinade.

3. Cooking Method

If possible, grill the chicken on an outdoor grill to achieve that smoky flavor that traditional shawarma is known for. If using a skillet, make sure it’s very hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.

4. Don’t Skip the Sauce

The garlic sauce is what elevates the shawarma wrap from good to great. It adds creaminess and an extra punch of garlic that ties all the flavors together.

Benefits of Shawarma Chicken Wraps

1. High in Protein

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Each wrap contains a good portion of protein, making it a satisfying meal option.

2. Rich in Antioxidants

The spices used in the shawarma marinade, such as turmeric and paprika, are rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

3. Customizable and Nutritious

Shawarma Chicken Wraps are highly customizable. You can add extra vegetables, swap out the sauce for a lighter version, or use whole-wheat flatbread for added fiber.

FAQs About Shawarma Chicken Wraps

1. Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Chicken thighs are generally juicier, but chicken breast works well too, especially if marinated for an extended period.

2. How Long Does Leftover Shawarma Last?

Leftover chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

3. Can I Make Shawarma Wraps Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the flatbread from becoming soggy. Store the cooked chicken, sauce, and vegetables separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble.

Conclusion: Savor the Flavor of Homemade Shawarma Chicken Wraps

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious Shawarma Chicken Wraps with Garlic Sauce. With their bold spices, tender chicken, and creamy garlic sauce, these wraps are sure to become a favorite in your household. The process may seem lengthy, but each step is designed to enhance the flavors and create a truly authentic shawarma experience.

Take your time marinating the chicken, savor the aroma of the spices as they cook, and enjoy the rich, flavorful taste of each bite. Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to experiment with different toppings, sauces, or even proteins. Cooking is all about creativity, and shawarma wraps are the perfect canvas for your culinary imagination.