Chicken shawarma wrap has become my go-to meal for a quick, flavorful dinner that tastes like it came straight from a bustling street food market. I remember the first time I tried a truly authentic one – the aroma of spices, the tender, marinated chicken, and that creamy garlic sauce all combined in a warm, soft pita. It was pure magic! Now, I’ve perfected my own recipe for an easy chicken shawarma wrap at home, and it’s just as satisfying. You might be wondering, what is a chicken shawarma wrap? It’s essentially marinated, spiced chicken piled into a flatbread with fresh veggies and a signature sauce. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Wrap

You’re going to adore making this homemade chicken shawarma wrap because it hits all the right notes!

Incredible flavor explosion with every bite.
Surprisingly quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights.
A healthier alternative to takeout, packed with lean protein.
Budget-friendly ingredients that deliver big taste.
Family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will devour.
You’ll create the best chicken shawarma wrap right in your own kitchen.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings.
It’s a hands-on meal that’s fun to assemble.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap Ingredients

Gathering your chicken shawarma wrap ingredients is the first delicious step to creating this amazing meal. The base of our wrap starts with 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, which are perfect because they stay incredibly juicy. For the marinade that makes it all sing, you’ll need 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt for tenderness, 2 tbsp olive oil for richness, and 2 cloves garlic, minced for that essential punch of flavor. We also add 1 tbsp lemon juice for brightness, along with a warm blend of spices: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to taste to enhance everything. Finally, have on hand 4 large flatbreads or pita breads, 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1 tomato, thinly sliced, 1/4 cup sliced red onion, and 1/4 cup garlic sauce or tahini sauce for assembling your perfect wrap.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wrap

Get ready to create the most flavorful chicken shawarma wrap you’ve ever had! This recipe breaks down exactly how to make chicken shawarma wrap that’s bursting with authentic taste.

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This creates the magical marinade for your chicken shawarma wrap.
Step 2: Add the 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs to the marinade. Toss them around until each piece is beautifully coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For an even deeper, more authentic flavor, I like to leave it overnight.
Step 3: Heat a grill pan or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs onto the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for that gorgeous char and that the chicken is cooked through. This is key for a fantastic grilled chicken shawarma wrap.
Step 4: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5-10 minutes. This brief rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring super tender chicken. Then, slice the chicken thinly against the grain.
Step 5: While the chicken rests, warm your 4 large flatbreads or pita breads. You can do this quickly in a dry skillet, or wrap them in foil and pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Step 6: Now for the fun part – assembly! Lay out your warm flatbreads. Pile on the sliced chicken, followed by 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1 tomato, thinly sliced, and 1/4 cup sliced red onion. Drizzle generously with 1/4 cup garlic sauce or tahini sauce. Roll them up tightly, and your delicious chicken shawarma wrap is ready to eat!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma Wrap

Want to elevate your homemade chicken shawarma wrap game? I’ve got a few insider secrets that make a world of difference!

For the juiciest chicken shawarma wrap, always opt for chicken thighs; they’re more forgiving and stay incredibly moist.
Don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking! This crucial step locks in all those delicious juices, ensuring a tender bite every time.
Marinating the chicken overnight is your secret weapon for maximum flavor infusion, creating a truly authentic taste.
Slice the cooked chicken thinly against the grain for that perfect street-food texture.
Charring your flatbreads lightly over an open flame adds an irresistible smoky depth to your chicken shawarma wrap.

What’s the secret to perfect chicken shawarma wrap?

The real magic for an authentic chicken shawarma wrap lies in the marinade. The combination of yogurt, lemon, and those warm spices tenderizes the chicken beautifully. Marinating the chicken overnight is key!

Can I make chicken shawarma wrap ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge. Cook the chicken and slice it, then store the cooked chicken and chopped veggies separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can find more meal prep tips here.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chicken shawarma wrap?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Also, be sure not to over-stuff your wraps, or they’ll be difficult to roll. Lastly, make sure your marinade has enough salt to bring out all the flavors. For more on seasoning, check out this guide on salt and pepper.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap: 1.5 lb Juicy Perfection - Chicken Shawarma Wrap - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Shawarma Wrap

Once you’ve mastered making your own chicken shawarma wrap, you’ll want to serve it up in the most delicious ways possible! It’s fantastic on its own, especially when nestled in a warm chicken shawarma wrap with pita. For a more complete meal, try pairing it with a fresh, crisp Greek salad or some fluffy couscous. I also love serving it with a side of crunchy pickles or some roasted sweet potato wedges for a little extra flavor and texture. It’s such a versatile dish that works for a casual lunch or a hearty dinner. Learn more about couscous.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap Nutrition

Let’s talk about the delicious details of this chicken shawarma wrap! Understanding the nutritional breakdown can help you fit this flavorful meal into your eating plan.

Calories: 470cal
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on dietary guidelines, you can refer to the MyPlate website.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Shawarma Wrap

Properly storing and reheating your chicken shawarma wrap ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness later, making it a great option for meal prep. For the best easy chicken shawarma wrap storage, let the assembled wraps cool completely before storing them. If you’ve assembled them, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider keeping the cooked chicken and chopped vegetables separate in airtight containers in the fridge. You can also freeze the cooked chicken and any sauces for up to 3 months; just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.

When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, being careful not to overcook it. Warm your flatbreads separately, then reassemble your chicken shawarma wrap with fresh toppings and sauce for the best texture and flavor. This method ensures your chicken wrap stays fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shawarma Wrap

What is the best chicken shawarma wrap recipe?

The best chicken shawarma wrap recipe often comes down to the quality of the marinade and the freshness of the ingredients. My favorite uses Greek yogurt for tenderness and a blend of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Marinating the chicken overnight is a game-changer for flavor!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for my chicken shawarma wrap?

You certainly can, but chicken thighs are my preference for a truly juicy chicken shawarma wrap because they have more fat and stay moist during cooking. If you use chicken breast, be extra careful not to overcook it, or it can become dry and tough. Marinating it well is even more important!

How do I make my chicken shawarma wrap authentic?

To achieve an authentic flavor, focus on the spice blend and the sauces. A good shawarma spice mix is key, and a creamy garlic sauce or tahini sauce adds that signature touch. Also, lightly charring your flatbreads over an open flame can really enhance the smoky, street-food feel of your wrap with chicken shawarma.

What sides go well with a chicken shawarma wrap?

This flavorful wrap pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider a fresh Greek salad, some fluffy couscous, or even a simple side of pickled vegetables. Roasted sweet potato wedges or a light cucumber and tomato salad also complement the rich flavors beautifully. You can find more ideas for side dishes.

Variations of Chicken Shawarma Wrap You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to mix up your chicken shawarma wrap! These variations add new flavors and cater to different preferences.

Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wrap: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to your marinade. A drizzle of sriracha or a spicy harissa sauce on top will also give your chicken shawarma wrap a fiery kick.
Vegetarian Shawarma Wrap: Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi cheese, marinated and roasted cauliflower florets, or firm tofu seasoned with the same shawarma spices. This makes for a delicious meat-free option.
Deconstructed Chicken Shawarma Bowl: Skip the wrap altogether and serve all the delicious components – the seasoned chicken, veggies, and sauce – over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty bowl.
Chicken Shawarma Sandwich Wrap: If you prefer a more compact bite, try using smaller pita breads or even crusty rolls for your chicken shawarma sandwich wrap. It’s perfect for a quick lunch on the go.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap: 1.5 lb Juicy Perfection - Chicken Shawarma Wrap - additional detail