Chicken Shawarma Wraps – Spiced chicken in pita bread.

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Chicken Shawarma Wraps have become a beloved street food staple around the globe, capturing the hearts and taste buds of everyone who tries them. These wraps are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, featuring spiced, juicy chicken wrapped in soft pita bread, often accompanied by a variety of fresh vegetables and sauces. My family and I recently decided to recreate this classic dish at home, and it was a resounding success. The aroma of the spices filled our kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that brought everyone together for a memorable meal. The combination of tender chicken with the savory spices was a hit, and the flexibility of toppings allowed each family member to customize their wrap to their liking. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, offering a taste of the exotic while still being easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Chicken Shawarma Wrap, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – They offer the best flavor and tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – For marinating and cooking.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin – A key spice in Middle Eastern cuisine.
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander – Provides a citrusy note.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric – For color and earthy flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
  • 4 large pita breads – The vessel for your shawarma.
  • 1 cup sliced cucumbers – For crunch and freshness.
  • 1 cup sliced tomatoes – Adds juiciness and acidity.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced – Provides a sharp bite.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh finish.
  • 1/2 cup tahini sauce or Greek yogurt – For creaminess.

Instructions

Creating Chicken Shawarma Wraps at home is a straightforward process that involves marinating the chicken, cooking it to perfection, and assembling the wraps. Here’s how you can make them:

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
  3. Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and charred. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
  4. Assemble the wraps: Lay a pita bread on a flat surface. Spread a generous amount of tahini sauce or Greek yogurt. Add sliced chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and parsley. Fold the sides of the pita over the filling and roll it up tightly.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Cut the wraps in half and serve immediately with your favorite side dish or salad.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves 4 people, with each serving containing approximately 450 calories. This calorie count includes the pita bread and basic vegetable toppings, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal option.

Preparation Time

From start to finish, preparing Chicken Shawarma Wraps takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes the time needed for marinating the chicken, cooking, and assembling the wraps. While it might seem lengthy, much of this time is passive, allowing you to prepare any sides or relax while the chicken marinates.

How to Serve

Chicken Shawarma Wraps are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

  • Paired with a fresh salad, such as tabbouleh or fattoush, to complement the flavors.
  • With a side of hummus or baba ghanoush for dipping.
  • Accompanied by a refreshing mint lemonade or iced tea.
  • As part of a larger Middle Eastern mezze spread.
  • Wrapped in foil for a portable meal on the go.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Chicken Shawarma Wraps turn out perfectly:

  • Use chicken thighs: They are more flavorful and remain juicy compared to chicken breasts.
  • Marinate longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • Cook on high heat: This will give the chicken a nice char and smoky flavor.
  • Warm your pita: Softening the pita makes it easier to wrap and more enjoyable to eat.
  • Customize your toppings: Feel free to add pickles, olives, or even a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Shawarma Wraps:

  • Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breast might be less juicy than thighs. Be careful not to overcook it.
  • Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or falafel for a vegetarian option.
  • What other sauces can I use? Aside from tahini and Greek yogurt, garlic sauce or even a spicy harissa can be excellent choices.
  • Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, the chicken can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the wraps just before serving for freshness.
  • What if I don’t have all the spices? You can use a store-bought shawarma spice blend as a substitute to simplify the process.

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