Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

If you’re craving something bursting with flavor yet quick enough for any busy day, these Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are exactly what you need. Juicy, tender chicken marinated with fragrant spices, wrapped in soft pita bread, and drizzled with a cooling garlic yogurt sauce makes for a perfect meal that’s both satisfying and fresh. This easy recipe brings Middle Eastern street food right into your kitchen, and it’s just waiting to become your new favorite go-to dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals or a spontaneous lunch.
  • Bold Flavors: A harmonious blend of spices creates that classic shawarma taste that’s juicy and irresistible.
  • Healthy and Balanced: Lean chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy yogurt combine for a nutritious wrap.
  • Versatile Meal: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences and customizable with your favorite toppings.
  • Made at Home: Skip the takeout and enjoy fresh, homemade shawarma anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. Each item plays its part in ensuring that juicy, saucy bite every time.

  • Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for the most tender and flavorful meat.
  • Shawarma Spice Mix: A mix of cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and garlic powder to give authentic flavor.
  • Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Greek yogurt combined with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt creates a creamy, tangy sauce.
  • Pita or Flatbreads: Soft and warm bread to wrap everything up and hold all that delicious filling.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions add crunch and freshness.
  • Olive Oil: For marinating the chicken and ensuring juicy, crispy edges.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds zest and brightness to the marinade and sauce.
  • Salt and Pepper: To season precisely and enhance all the flavors.

Variations for Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

This Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe is easy to customize for whatever you have on hand or your dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with grilled mushrooms or cauliflower for a hearty plant-based option.
  • Spicy Kick: Add some harissa or chili flakes to the marinade or drizzle in the wrap for heat lovers.
  • Gluten-Free Wrap: Use lettuce leaves or gluten-free flatbreads for a low-carb or gluten-sensitive alternative.
  • Extra Creamy Sauce: Mix in tahini or a bit of olive oil into the garlic yogurt sauce for richer texture.
  • Fresh Herbs: Boost freshness by adding chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro to your wrap.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, shawarma spice mix, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, tossing to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors deeply.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and a touch of black pepper. Stir well and set aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes each side until fully cooked and slightly charred at the edges for that authentic shawarma taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

Warm your pita bread slightly and spread a generous layer of garlic yogurt sauce. Add sliced cooked chicken, fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Drizzle more sauce on top if desired.

Step 5: Wrap and Serve

Fold the pita tightly around the filling. Slice in half if you like and serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

  • Marinate Long Enough: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
  • Use Thigh Meat: Chicken thighs stay juicy and don’t dry out like breasts.
  • Warm the Pita: Lightly heat your bread to make it pliable and soft for wrapping.
  • Balance the Sauce: Taste and adjust garlic and lemon juice in the yogurt sauce for perfect tanginess.
  • Add Crunch: Fresh vegetables like cucumbers and pickles add amazing texture contrast.
  • Cook Over High Heat: This creates beautiful caramelization on the chicken for that authentic grilled flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Finish your wraps with a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, a sprinkle of sumac for a citrusy accent, or a few rings of pickled onions to brighten up each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp tabbouleh salad, crispy baked fries, or warm lentil soup for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap them in parchment paper for easy handling at picnics, cut into smaller appetizer-sized pieces for parties, or serve deconstructed in bowls where everyone can build their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover cooked chicken and sauce into airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked, marinated chicken separately. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep it juicy without drying out, and freshen up the pita bread by warming briefly in a pan or oven.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts can dry out easily, so marinate longer and cook carefully to keep them juicy.

Is the garlic yogurt sauce healthy?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt provides protein and probiotics while garlic adds antioxidants and flavor without extra calories.

How spicy is this Chicken Shawarma Wrap?

The classic version is mild, but feel free to add chili or pepper to your spice mix or sauce if you want a spicy kick.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Try substituting chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu and use a vegan yogurt alternative for the garlic sauce.

What’s the best pita to use?

Look for fresh, soft pita bread or flatbreads with a pocket to hold fillings easily, but any soft wrap will do.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce capture the essence of Middle Eastern street food with simple, fresh ingredients that bring bold flavors to your table quickly. Whether you’re new to cooking shawarma or a seasoned fan, this recipe is an easy way to impress your taste buds and enjoy a fulfilling homemade meal anytime. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!

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Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce


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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 42 minutes
  • Yield: 4 wraps 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free Option

Description

Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are a quick, flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired meal featuring tender marinated chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce wrapped in warm pita bread. This recipe is perfect for busy days, offering bold spices, balanced nutrition, and easy customization for various dietary needs.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp shawarma spice mix (cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garlic Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Wrap Ingredients

  • 4 pita breads or flatbreads, warmed
  • 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, shawarma spice mix, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse deeply.
  2. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and a touch of black pepper. Stir well and chill in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges for authentic shawarma flavor.
  4. Assemble the Wraps: Warm the pita bread slightly, then spread a generous layer of garlic yogurt sauce on each. Add sliced cooked chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. Drizzle additional sauce if desired.
  5. Wrap and Serve: Fold the pita tightly around the filling. Slice in half if preferred and serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for longer than 30 minutes for more tender and flavorful meat.
  • Use chicken thighs for juicier results compared to breast meat.
  • Warm the pita bread to make it pliable for easier wrapping.
  • Adjust garlic and lemon juice in the yogurt sauce for perfect tanginess to your taste.
  • Add fresh vegetables like cucumbers and pickles for crunchy texture contrast.
  • Cook chicken over high heat to achieve caramelized, authentic shawarma edges.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 wrap
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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