Chicken Shawarma Wrap

Spiced chicken wrapped in pita with garlic sauce.

Chicken Shawarma Wrap:

A flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired wrap featuring spiced grilled chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and fresh veggies—all wrapped in warm pita!

Ingredients

1- For the Shawarma Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 boneless thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

2- For the Garlic Sauce (Toum-inspired):

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt

3- For the Wraps:

• 4 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 small tomato, diced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cucumber slices
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Pickles (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using).
   • Coat the chicken well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until browned and fully cooked (internal temp: 75°C / 165°F).
   • Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt.
   • Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Wraps:
   • Warm the pita bread slightly to make it pliable.
   • Spread a layer of garlic sauce on each pita.
   • Add shredded lettuce, sliced chicken, tomatoes, red onion, cucumbers, and parsley.
   • Top with pickles for extra tanginess (optional but recommended).
5. Wrap & Serve:
   • Roll the pita tightly and wrap in foil for easy handling.
   • Serve warm with extra garlic sauce on the side!

Tips & Variations:

• Authentic Flavor: Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results.
• Grill It Right: If using a stovetop, cook on high heat for a slight char.
• Extra Toppings: Add hummus, feta cheese, or a drizzle of tahini sauce for a twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor and quick cooking.

Enjoy your meal!