Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and sure to impress? Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps offer a delightful combination of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces, all wrapped in a warm flatbread. With my years in the kitchen experimenting with Middle Eastern flavors, this recipe has become a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Why Make This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The marinade features warm spices and zesty lemon, infusing the chicken with incredible taste.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, these wraps are a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.
- Quick and Convenient: Preparation and cooking come together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
- Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, there’s room to tweak the recipe to your liking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These wraps make for an excellent casual meal, picnic treat, or even as party appetizers. I love serving them at gatherings, as everyone can build their own.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Grilling
This recipe combines marinated chicken breast grilled to perfection, then wrapped in flatbread with a bounty of fresh toppings.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first tackled Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps, I was surprised by how easily the spices blended to create a vibrant flavor profile. My biggest challenge was mastering the grilling technique to ensure the chicken was juicy and never dry. Once I learned to properly marinate and control the grill temperature, it truly became a show-stopper dish!
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps
To start, you’ll marinate boneless chicken breast in a mix of garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, and olive oil. This step enhances flavor and tenderness. Next, grill the chicken until it’s cooked through and has those beautiful char marks. Finally, slice the chicken and assemble the wraps with your favorite veggies and sauces, rolling them snugly in warm flatbread.
Expert Tips for Success
- Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, but if time permits, try refrigerating it overnight for maximum taste.
- High Heat for Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill creates a beautiful sear, sealing in juices while adding flavor.
- Rest Before Slicing: Give the grilled chicken a few minutes to rest before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in for a moister bite.
- Experiment with Wraps: Feel free to use different flatbreads like pita or tortillas. Each adds a unique texture and flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for a crisp bite; I love adding crunchy cucumbers and fresh parsley for added freshness.
How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps
- Pair them with garlic sauce or tahini for a creamy touch that complements the spices.
- Serve with a side of tabbouleh or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garnish with more fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sumac for that authentic touch.
- These wraps are perfect for picnics; bundle them in parchment paper for an easy grab-and-go meal!
Storage and Reheating Guide
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm gently on a skillet or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Dairy-Free: Swap yogurt-based sauces for tahini or avocado for creaminess without dairy.
- Spicy Addition: Incorporate harissa or chili flakes into the marinade for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with grilled halloumi or marinated tofu for a meatless delight.
Nutritional Highlights
Chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the veggies add fiber and essential vitamins. This dish is naturally low in carbs, especially if you opt for lettuce wraps. Always consider allergens—this recipe is nut-free and can be made dairy-free with careful sauce selection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dry Chicken: Avoid overcooking by checking the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Tough Texture: Ensure you slice against the grain of the meat after grilling for tender bites.
- Flavor Lacking: If the wraps taste bland, consider increasing the marinade’s acidity with more lemon juice or adding a pinch of salt before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! Beef or lamb is traditional for shawarma, and you can even use shrimp for a seafood twist. -
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem! You can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stove or bake it in the oven on a sheet pan at 400°F (200°C) until done. -
How long can I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes up to 24 hours. Just ensure it’s in the fridge if marinating overnight. -
Can the wraps be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and store it in the fridge, then grill just before serving. Assemble the wraps right before eating for freshness.
Chicken Shawarma Grilled Wraps
Delicious grilled chicken wrapped in flatbread with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces, making for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 flatbreads
- Fresh vegetables (cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, etc.)
- Sauces (garlic sauce, tahini, etc.)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken until fully cooked and marked with grill lines, about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it.
- Assemble the wraps by laying the sliced chicken on flatbread, adding fresh vegetables and sauces.
- Roll the flatbread to enclose the fillings and serve warm.
Notes
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use different flatbreads for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg