Chicken shawarma wraps are a culinary treasure born from Middle Eastern street food culture, delivering a bold, aromatic, and satisfying experience in every bite. Packed with juicy, spiced chicken, crisp vegetables, creamy sauces, and soft flatbread, these wraps are a perfect fusion of texture, taste, and tradition. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or planning a flavorful feast, chicken shawarma wraps are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What Is Chicken Shawarma?
Shawarma refers to meat that is traditionally stacked on a vertical spit, slow-roasted, and shaved off as it cooks. While the authentic version requires special equipment, you can easily recreate the rich flavors at home using your oven, stovetop, or grill. Chicken shawarma is marinated in a mixture of warm spices, lemon, and yogurt to tenderize and flavor the meat, which is then cooked and wrapped with fresh accompaniments in soft pita or flatbread.
Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma Wraps
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (juicier than breasts)
- 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
For the Garlic Sauce (Touma)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Wraps
- 4–6 pita breads, flatbreads, or lavash
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (optional)
- Pickled turnips or pickles (optional but authentic)
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wraps at Home
1. Marinate the Chicken
Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—preferably overnight—for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the chicken on a lined baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for the last 2 minutes for charred edges.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side.
- Grill Method: Grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust to taste. This creamy sauce is key to authentic shawarma flavor.
4. Assemble the Wraps
Warm your flatbreads or pitas. Layer with:
- A generous spoon of garlic sauce
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Cucumber and onion
- Sliced chicken
- Pickles or pickled turnips
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs
Roll tightly and wrap in parchment or foil for easier eating.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Use Chicken Thighs
Thighs stay juicy and flavorful even at high heat. Avoid dry wraps by skipping the breasts unless you marinate well.
Don’t Skip the Marination Time
Letting the chicken sit in its yogurt-spice bath overnight means tender, deeply seasoned meat.
Serve Immediately
Wraps are best when served hot, as the contrast between the warm chicken and cool veggies/sauce is essential.
Make It a Shawarma Platter
Skip the wrap and serve over rice or salad with hummus, tabbouleh, and pita for a delicious shawarma bowl.
Variations to Try
Spicy Shawarma Wraps
Add extra cayenne or chili sauce to the marinade or drizzle hot sauce before wrapping.
Vegan or Vegetarian Shawarma
Replace chicken with grilled mushrooms, tofu, or roasted chickpeas seasoned with the same spice blend.
Shawarma with Hummus
Swap the garlic sauce for a generous layer of hummus for a rich, creamy twist.
Shawarma with Tahini
Drizzle lemony tahini sauce instead of yogurt-based garlic sauce for a nutty, savory note.
Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma Wraps
While shawarma is indulgent, it can also be nutritionally balanced:
- Protein-rich: Chicken provides essential amino acids.
- Rich in spices: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich ingredients like turmeric, garlic, and cumin boost immunity.
- Vegetable-packed: Lettuce, cucumber, and tomato add fiber and vitamins.
- Customizable calories: Choose low-fat yogurt, whole wheat wraps, and light sauces to make it healthier.
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma Wraps
- Tabbouleh or Fattoush salad
- Hummus and pita chips
- Baba Ghanoush
- Lentil soup
- French fries or roasted potatoes
- Mint tea or a yogurt-based drink (Ayran)
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store chicken and vegetables separately to prevent sogginess. Keep chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave. Assemble fresh wraps when ready to eat.
Garlic sauce keeps well for 5 days refrigerated. Shake or stir before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze chicken shawarma?
Yes. Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cooked chicken also freezes well—just thaw and reheat gently.
Can I use store-bought flatbread?
Absolutely. Just warm it slightly before assembling for a soft, pliable wrap.
Can I meal prep shawarma wraps?
Yes. Cook the chicken and prep the veggies in advance. Assemble wraps fresh for best texture.
Chicken shawarma wraps are not just a meal—they’re an experience. Every bite is bursting with spice, texture, and freshness, transporting you straight to the vibrant streets of the Middle East. Whether you’re new to shawarma or a seasoned fan, this dish is guaranteed to earn a permanent place in your culinary repertoire.
