Name: Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 27 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp shawarma spice mix (cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon blend); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt to taste; 1-2 tbsp water (to thin sauce as needed); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or mint; 4 pita breads or flatbreads; 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 medium tomatoes, sliced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped; Pickled onions; Olives; Feta cheese; Chili flakes or harissa (for spice); Tahini (to mix with yogurt sauce for extra creaminess)

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with bold spices, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces, then this Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender marinated chicken with vibrant flavors wrapped in soft pita bread, this dish is a celebration of Middle Eastern street food that is simple to make right at home. Whether you prefer the pungent zest of garlic sauce or the cooling smoothness of yogurt sauce, this wrap delivers a balanced, mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime your taste buds need a lift.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic flavors: The marinade blends traditional spices that bring genuine Middle Eastern taste to your table.
Versatile sauce options: Choose between creamy garlic sauce or refreshing yogurt sauce to match your mood.
Easy to prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it perfect for busy weeknight meals.
Customizable: You can swap veggies or proteins easily to cater to dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Perfect for gatherings: These wraps are great handheld meals to serve for guests or casual family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce calls for straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each item plays a crucial role—spices infuse aroma and depth, fresh vegetables add crunch and color, and the sauces bring that irresistible creamy texture.

Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, ideal for absorbing the marinade deeply.
Shawarma spice mix: A combination of cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon gives that signature warmth.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to create vibrant, aromatic sauce.
Greek yogurt: Thick and tangy, used in the yogurt sauce for a cooling effect.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a crispy exterior when cooking chicken.
Pita bread or flatbreads: Soft, warm wraps to hold all delicious fillings together.
Cucumber and tomatoes: Fresh and crisp vegetables to brighten up every bite.
Fresh parsley or cilantro: Adds a pop of green and fresh herbal notes.
Lemon juice: Provides acidity to balance the savory spices and creamy sauces.

Variations for Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce

One of the fun parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is to your tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to make it your own by switching up ingredients or incorporating additional flavors that excite you.

Vegetarian version: Swap chicken for marinated grilled mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a meatless delight.
Spice it up: Add extra chili flakes or harissa in the marinade if you want a spicy kick.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves as your wrap base instead of pita.
Extra creamy sauce: Mix tahini into the yogurt sauce for a rich, nutty twist.
Additional toppings: Include pickled onions, olives, or feta cheese for enhanced texture and flavor.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce Recipe

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, and the shawarma spice mix in a bowl. Add minced garlic and then toss the chicken thighs in this mixture until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors deeply penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauces

While the chicken marinates, prepare your choice of sauce. For garlic sauce, blend garlic cloves with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and a touch of water until smooth and creamy. For yogurt sauce, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint for freshness.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken thighs until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing thinly.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

Warm your pita bread or flatbreads for a few seconds to make them pliable. Spread your preferred sauce evenly over the bread, then layer on sliced chicken, fresh cucumber, tomato, and herbs. Roll it up snugly and enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce

Use dark meat: Chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful compared to breasts for shawarma.
Marinate overnight: Patience pays off; letting the chicken soak in spices overnight boosts flavor dramatically.
Don’t skip resting: Rest the cooked chicken before slicing to retain moisture and tenderness.
Warm the bread: Briefly heating pita makes it more flexible and less likely to tear when wrapping.
Balance the sauces: Taste your garlic or yogurt sauce before assembling and adjust lemon or salt for perfect tang.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of sumac, or a few pickled vegetables add freshness and an authentic touch that elevates the whole meal.

Side Dishes

Serve with sides like crispy fries, a tangy tabbouleh salad, or creamy hummus to round out the meal and keep things interesting.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the wraps into bite-sized pinwheels or serve deconstructed on a platter with all components laid out for a DIY shawarma board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra chicken and vegetables separate from the bread and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked marinated chicken in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and assembling your wrap.

Reheating

Reheat chicken gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying it out. Warm the bread separately, then assemble fresh to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Beef, lamb, or even turkey can be marinated and cooked similarly to create delicious shawarma wraps tailored to your preferences.

What’s the difference between garlic sauce and yogurt sauce?

Garlic sauce is typically a creamy, pungent blend of garlic and oil, while yogurt sauce is tangier and lighter, made with yogurt and fresh herbs.

How spicy is the Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce?

The spice level can be adjusted easily by controlling the amount of chili in the marinade, making it suitable for all heat tolerances.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the pita with gluten-free wraps, corn tortillas, or large lettuce leaves to keep the dish naturally gluten-free and just as delicious.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Prepare the chicken and sauces ahead of time, store them separately, and assemble the wrap fresh when ready to eat for maximum flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a homemade Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce that’s rich in flavor, texture, and zest. It’s easy enough to become a weeknight favorite, yet impressive enough to serve guests. Give this recipe a try—you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal in no time that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce

Author: Brooklyn
Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Yield: 4 wraps 1x
Diet: Gluten-free option available, Dairy (if yogurt sauce used), Protein-rich

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Description

This Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Garlic or Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make Middle Eastern street food inspired meal. Tender marinated chicken thighs are cooked to juicy perfection, paired with fresh veggies and your choice of a creamy garlic or refreshing yogurt sauce, all wrapped in warm pita or flatbreads. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or gatherings, this recipe offers authentic spices and customizable options to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp shawarma spice mix, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 lb chicken thighs and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Prepare the Sauces: For garlic sauce, blend 3 minced garlic cloves with 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt, and a little water until smooth and creamy. For yogurt sauce, stir together 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or mint.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Assemble the Wraps: Warm the pita or flatbreads briefly to make them pliable. Spread your chosen sauce evenly over the bread. Layer sliced chicken, cucumber, tomato, and fresh herbs on top. Add any optional toppings like pickled onions or feta if desired. Roll up tightly and serve immediately.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful shawarma compared to breasts.
Marinate overnight for best taste.
Rest cooked chicken before slicing to retain moisture.
Warm the pita bread briefly so it’s flexible and less prone to tearing.
Adjust sauce seasoning with lemon and salt to your preference before assembling.

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Grilling / Pan-frying
Cuisine: Middle Eastern