Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors yet incredibly simple to prepare, look no further than Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. This dish combines juicy, spiced chicken with a cool, creamy garlic yogurt sauce all wrapped up in soft flatbreads, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. The harmony between the warm spices and refreshing sauce makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser and an easy go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor Explosion: The perfectly balanced spices infuse the chicken with rich Middle Eastern flavors that are both exotic and comforting.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe fits into busy weeknights without sacrificing taste or quality.
  • Versatile Wraps: These wraps can be customized with your favorite veggies and sauces to suit any palate or dietary need.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Lean chicken and a tangy garlic yogurt sauce offer a wholesome, protein-packed meal.
  • Great for Entertaining: Serve them at casual gatherings or family dinners where everyone can build their own perfect wrap.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is straightforward but essential to capture the dish’s authentic taste and texture. Each element adds a layer of flavor or a splash of color to bring it all together beautifully.

  • Chicken Breast or Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken for juicy, tender meat that absorbs spices well.
  • Shawarma Spice Mix: A blend of cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, and cinnamon creates the signature shawarma flavor.
  • Plain Yogurt: Thick, tangy yogurt forms the base of the garlic sauce, keeping the wrap light and fresh.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves blended into the yogurt sauce provide a robust kick.
  • Olive Oil: Used to marinate the chicken and cook it to a golden finish.
  • Flatbreads or Pita: Soft wraps are perfect for folding all the flavors together.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce add crunch, color, and freshness.
  • Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the sauce and balances the spices.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all ingredients.

Variations for Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Feel free to make Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce your own by swapping in ingredients or adjusting flavors. Whether you need a gluten-free version or want to spice things up, these variations are easy to try at home.

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based delight.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or drizzle with hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Different Wraps: Use whole wheat tortillas, naan, or gluten-free wraps depending on your preference.
  • Extra Herbs: Incorporate fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro into the yogurt sauce for an herbal lift.
  • Additional Toppings: Include pickled onions, olives, or feta cheese for more layers of flavor.
Easy Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Start by mixing your shawarma spices with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they’re evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to soak in all those incredible flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and fully cooked inside, usually about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the chicken cooks, combine plain yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the wraps. This sauce adds the perfect creamy and tangy balance.

Step 4: Prepare the Veggies and Wraps

Wash and slice fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. Warm the flatbreads or pita bread slightly so they become soft and pliable for folding.

Step 5: Assemble Your Wraps

Lay the flatbread flat, spread a generous amount of garlic yogurt sauce, layer sliced chicken and fresh veggies, then roll it tightly. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

  • Marinate Thoroughly: The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavors will develop, so plan ahead if you can.
  • Use Thigh Meat: Chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender than breasts.
  • Don’t Skip the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: This sauce is what makes the wrap refreshing and unique—adding plain yogurt without garlic won’t be the same.
  • Warm Wraps Slightly: Heating your flatbread ensures easy rolling and prevents cracking.
  • Cut Chicken Thinly: Thin slices make it easier to enjoy each bite with balanced flavors.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Drizzle a little extra garlic yogurt sauce on top, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or sumac, and add a wedge of lemon for squeezing. These add freshness and a pop of color to your presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair your wraps with a side of crispy fries, a light tabbouleh salad, or some pickled vegetables—each complements the richness of the shawarma beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try skewering the wrapped shawarma halves with colorful toothpicks and serving on a wooden board or platter for a casual, inviting look perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover chicken and sauce separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating; the garlic yogurt sauce is best made fresh.

Reheating

Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave, then warm the flatbread separately to avoid sogginess. Add fresh veggies and sauce right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought shawarma spice mix?

Absolutely! Store-bought mixes are convenient and work well, but feel free to adjust the seasoning with extra garlic, cumin, or paprika for a personal touch.

Is Greek yogurt better for the sauce?

Greek yogurt’s thickness is perfect for a creamy, tangy sauce, but you can use plain yogurt as well—just strain it if it’s too watery.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out traditional flatbreads for gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is moderately spiced with aromatic herbs and warm spices but not overly hot. You can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.

Can I prep this recipe in advance?

You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and prepare the sauce in advance, but assembling the wrap fresh gives the best results.

Final Thoughts

Ready to enjoy a meal that’s both flavorful and fuss-free? These Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce bring together juicy, spiced chicken and creamy sauce in a warm, soft wrap that’s perfect any day of the week. Give this recipe a try—you just might find your new favorite quick meal!

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Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are a vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring juicy, spiced chicken wrapped in soft flatbreads with a refreshing creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, these wraps are perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, offering a harmonious balance of warm spices, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce that will delight your taste buds and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences.

  • Author: Nina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 wraps 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

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

Garlic Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt preferred)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt

Wraps and Vegetables

  • 46 soft flatbreads or pita breads
  • 1 cup sliced tomatoes
  • 1 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: Mix shawarma spices with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken pieces and coat evenly. Marinate for at least 20 minutes to infuse flavors.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and fully cooked inside, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
  3. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Combine plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to use, allowing flavors to meld.
  4. Prepare the Veggies and Wraps: Wash and slice tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. Warm the flatbreads or pita bread slightly to make them soft and pliable for wrapping.
  5. Assemble Your Wraps: Lay flatbread flat, spread a generous layer of garlic yogurt sauce, add sliced chicken and fresh vegetables, then roll tightly. Serve immediately for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken thoroughly; longer marination enhances deeper flavors.
  • Chicken thighs provide juicier and more tender meat compared to breasts.
  • Don’t skip the garlic in the yogurt sauce—it’s essential for the authentic flavor balance.
  • Warm the flatbreads slightly to make them easier to roll without cracking.
  • Slice chicken thinly to enjoy balanced flavors in every bite.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 wrap
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: Chicken Shawarma, Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Middle Eastern Wraps, Quick Dinner, Healthy Wraps, Shawarma Spice Mix

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