Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wraps: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal

Introduction

Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a delicious Middle Eastern street food that has gained popularity all over the world. These flavorful wraps are made with marinated chicken, spices, and a variety of toppings, all wrapped in a warm pita bread. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Follow the steps below to create your own Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wraps at home.

Ingredients

For the marinade:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the yogurt sauce:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the toppings:

4-6 pita breads
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup diced cucumbers
1/2 cup sliced red onions
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Hot sauce or chili flakes (optional)

Steps

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste-like marinade. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the yogurt sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.

Step 4: Assemble the wraps

Warm the pita breads in a microwave or on a stovetop griddle for a few seconds to make them pliable. Spread a generous amount of the yogurt sauce on each pita bread. Place a few strips of the cooked chicken on top of the sauce. Add diced tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced red onions, and chopped mint leaves. Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with chili flakes if desired.

Step 5: Roll and serve

Starting from one end, tightly roll up the pita bread to enclose the filling. Secure the wrap with a toothpick if necessary. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients. Serve the Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wraps immediately, or wrap them in foil and keep them warm until ready to serve.

Variations

While the classic Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wrap is already delicious on its own, you can get creative and add your own twists to the recipe. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Shawarma Wrap: Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Lamb Shawarma Wrap: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced marinated lamb for a rich and succulent twist on the traditional recipe.
Spicy Mayo: If you like an extra kick of heat, mix some hot sauce or chili paste into the yogurt sauce to create a spicy mayo.

Tips

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight.
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper to make the wraps milder or spicier.
Don’t forget to warm the pita breads before assembling the wraps. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll.
Experiment with different toppings and sauces to customize the wraps to your liking. Some popular additions include pickles, olives, hummus, and garlic sauce.

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a fantastic option for a flavorful and satisfying meal. With the right combination of spices, a tangy yogurt sauce, and an array of fresh toppings, these wraps are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them as a quick lunch or a casual dinner, these wraps will transport your taste buds to the streets of the Middle East. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself?

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make the yogurt sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the yogurt sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

3. Can I freeze the cooked chicken shawarma?

While it is possible to freeze the cooked chicken shawarma, it is best to freeze the chicken separately from the other ingredients. This will help maintain the texture and freshness of the toppings. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken and assemble the wraps.

4. Can I use store-bought pita bread?

Yes, you can use store-bought pita bread if you don’t have the time or ingredients to make your own. Just make sure to warm the pita bread before assembling the wraps for the best texture.

5. Are there any alternatives to tahini?

If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can replace it with an equal amount of smooth peanut butter or almond butter. This will add a similar creamy and nutty flavor to the yogurt sauce.

Enjoy your Spicy Chicken Shawarma Wraps!