Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps are an amazing way to enjoy a popular Middle Eastern dish in a portable format. These wraps showcase marinated chicken, grilled to perfection and wrapped in soft pita or flatbread, filled with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces. The combination of vibrant flavors makes this dish not just a meal but an incredible experience that you can share with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just enjoying a weeknight dinner, these wraps are sure to satisfy your craving for delicious street food.
If you’ve never tried Chicken Shawarma, you’re in for a treat! The marinating process infuses the chicken with spices and acidity, creating a savory flavor profile that will have you coming back for more. Inside the wrap, crisp vegetables add a refreshing crunch, while the sauces enhance the overall taste, making each bite an unforgettable journey. In this guide, you’ll discover the incredible recipe for Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps, all the preparation steps involved, and tips for serving them.
If you’re looking for a delicious way to elevate your cooking, you’ve found it! Let’s dive deeper into the reasons you’ll love this recipe and how to make those amazing Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps are not only enjoyable to eat, but they also bring together many elements that make them a fantastic choice. Here are some reasons why you will undoubtedly love making and devouring this recipe:
1. Flavorful Marinade: The spices used in the marinade create a burst of flavor that penetrates the chicken beautifully.
2. Quick Preparation: This recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish is a healthier alternative to takeout.
4. Versatile: You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer extra veggies or different sauces.
5. Fun to Make: Wrapping the ingredients together is a fun activity for family and friends.
6. Great for Meal Prep: You can prepare the chicken in advance and enjoy it throughout the week in different meals.
Now that you know the reasons to love Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps, let’s move on to the essential information about preparation and cooking.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps is straightforward and quick. Here’s how the time breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Marination Time: 30 minutes (or longer for more flavor)
– Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Overall, you can expect the entire process to take about 1 hour, making this dish an excellent choice for those wanting a quick yet delicious meal.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons ground coriander
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– ½ cup plain yogurt
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large pita breads or flatbreads
– 1 cup sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup sliced tomatoes
– ½ cup shredded lettuce
– ½ cup sliced red onion
– ½ cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce for drizzling
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps is easy if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest the Chicken: Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
6. Prepare Wraps: Warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side to make them pliable.
7. Assemble the Wraps: Lay the grilled chicken strips onto the warm flatbread. Top with cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion.
8. Add Sauce: Drizzle tahini sauce or garlic sauce over the fillings.
9. Wrap It Up: Fold the sides of the flatbread over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to enclose everything.
10. Serve: Serve immediately with additional sauce on the side if desired.
Following these steps will ensure that your Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps are flavorful and rewarding!
How to Serve
To make your Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps even more enticing, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Serve the wraps on a large platter, cut in half to showcase the colorful fillings.
2. Dips: Offer an array of sauces such as tahini, garlic sauce, or even a spicy chili sauce for added flavor.
3. Side Dishes: Pair with sides like crispy fries, tabbouleh, or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.
4. Make it a Feast: Offer various fillings and sauces to allow your guests to build their wraps according to their preferences.
5. Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro over the wraps for that extra flair.
By considering these serving tips, your Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps will not only taste incredible but also look spectacular on the table!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps.
– Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or even overnight.
– Grill Marks: Ensure you get nice grill marks on the chicken by not moving it around too much while cooking.
– Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste or try adding spices like cinnamon or allspice for a unique twist.
Recipe Variation
Get creative with your Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps! Here are some variations to consider:
1. Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, and use plant-based yogurt for the marinade.
2. Spicy Shawarma: Incorporate more cayenne pepper or add sliced jalapeños to the wraps for an extra kick.
3. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, feta cheese, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
4. Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat pita or flatbread for a healthier wrap alternative.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Leftover Chicken Shawarma wraps can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking it. Just seal it tightly in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before grilling. Cooked wraps can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure they are tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Special Equipment
Consider these tools to make preparing Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps easier:
– Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving that beautiful char on the chicken.
– Mixing Bowl: For mixing the marinade and marinating the chicken.
– Kitchen Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken while grilling.
– Sharp Knife: For slicing the chicken and cutting the wraps in half for serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts; however, thighs are more flavorful and remain juicy during cooking.
What sauces pair well with Chicken Shawarma Wraps?
Tahini sauce, garlic sauce, and even yogurt-based sauces work beautifully with the flavors of the wrap.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not in its current form, but you can use gluten-free wraps or lettuce for a gluten-free version.
Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Absolutely! Marinated chicken can be made a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
What type of flatbread should I use?
Pita bread is most traditional, but any flatbread such as lavash or tortillas works well too.
Conclusion
Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps are a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved Middle Eastern dish right at home. With their flavorful marinated chicken and a variety of fresh vegetables, these wraps are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these wraps will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy the journey of creating these delightful Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps, and savor every delicious bite!
Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minute
Ingredients
– 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons ground coriander
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– ½ cup plain yogurt
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large pita breads or flatbreads
– 1 cup sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup sliced tomatoes
– ½ cup shredded lettuce
– ½ cup sliced red onion
– ½ cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce for drizzling
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps is easy if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest the Chicken: Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
6. Prepare Wraps: Warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill for about 1 minute on each side to make them pliable.
7. Assemble the Wraps: Lay the grilled chicken strips onto the warm flatbread. Top with cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion.
8. Add Sauce: Drizzle tahini sauce or garlic sauce over the fillings.
9. Wrap It Up: Fold the sides of the flatbread over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to enclose everything.
10. Serve: Serve immediately with additional sauce on the side if desired.
Following these steps will ensure that your Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps are flavorful and rewarding!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 wraps
- Calories: 455 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g