Name: Chicken Shawarma Wrap
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Pita bread or flatbread, for serving; Shredded lettuce; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced red onion; Dill pickles (optional); Garlic sauce or tahini sauce, for serving

Why You’ll Love Chicken Shawarma Wrap Recipe

This recipe takes all the flavors of traditional shawarma and adapts them into an approachable, homemade wrap. It’s packed with warm spices, juicy chicken, and refreshing toppings, all wrapped in soft bread. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping for the week, this shawarma wrap offers bold taste, flexibility, and comforting satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:
chicken thighs, thinly sliced
salt
black pepper
ground cumin
ground coriander
paprika
onion powder
turmeric
sugar
tomato paste
olive oil

For the garlic sauce:
mayonnaise
plain yogurt
grated garlic
lemon juice
finely chopped parsley

For the sumac onions:
red onion, thinly sliced
sumac
lemon juice
parsley

For assembling the wrap:
lavash, flatbread, or tortilla
lettuce
tomato slices
pickles
garlic sauce
harissa or hot sauce (optional)
french fries or thin fried potatoes (optional)

Directions

Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, onion powder, turmeric, sugar, tomato paste, and olive oil. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred.
Prepare the garlic sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and parsley until smooth. Adjust to taste.
Make the sumac onions: Toss thinly sliced red onions with sumac, lemon juice, and parsley. Let them sit while you prepare the other ingredients.
Assemble the wrap: Warm your lavash or flatbread. Spread garlic sauce over the center, then layer with lettuce, cooked chicken, tomato, pickles, sumac onions, and fries if using. Drizzle with additional garlic sauce or harissa if desired.
Wrap and serve: Fold the bread tightly around the filling, roll it up, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on wrap size and filling quantity.
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Marinating time: At least 30 minutes (optional for deeper flavor)
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: About 30–45 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken breast: Substitute thighs with sliced chicken breast for a leaner version.
• Grill it: Cook the marinated chicken on a grill for a smoky flavor.
• Add tahini: Swap or combine the garlic sauce with a tahini drizzle for variety.
• Make it vegetarian: Use roasted chickpeas or grilled vegetables in place of chicken.
• Go dairy-free: Use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise for a fully dairy-free wrap.
• Try other breads: Use pita, tortillas, or homemade flatbread if lavash isn’t available.
• Include hummus: Spread a layer of hummus for extra richness and fiber.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store leftover cooked chicken, garlic sauce, and sumac onions in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Reassemble wraps just before serving for the best texture. Avoid storing assembled wraps, as the bread may become soggy.

FAQs

What is chicken shawarma?

Chicken shawarma is a dish made with marinated and spiced chicken that is traditionally cooked on a vertical spit, then sliced and served in flatbread with sauces and toppings.

Can I use store-bought shawarma spice blend?

Yes, a pre-made shawarma spice blend can be used in place of individual spices for convenience.

Is lavash the same as pita?

No, lavash is thinner and more flexible than pita, making it great for wraps. However, pita is a good substitute if lavash is unavailable.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through, then broil briefly for charred edges.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is flavorful but not spicy. Add harissa or hot sauce for heat.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, but breast can be used if desired.

Can I make the components ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and cook the chicken, prepare the sauce and onions, and refrigerate them. Assemble the wraps when ready to eat.

Are fries traditional in shawarma wraps?

Fries are a popular addition in many street food-style shawarma wraps and add a fun, crispy texture.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.

What toppings go well with shawarma?

Common toppings include lettuce, tomato, cucumber, pickles, onions, and a drizzle of garlic or tahini sauce.

Conclusion

This Chicken Shawarma Wrap brings together savory marinated chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and crisp, fresh toppings in a warm and satisfying wrap. Whether for a weeknight dinner, lunch on-the-go, or a make-ahead meal, it’s a flavorful and fun way to enjoy Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine from the comfort of your kitchen. With flexible ingredients and quick prep, this wrap is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.