Save A festive twist on classic chicken shawarma: tender, spiced chicken marinated in Greek yogurt, wrapped with vibrant holiday vegetables, tangy pickles, and a creamy yogurt sauce. Perfect for a cheerful holiday meal.
This recipe has become a favorite at holiday gatherings, combining rich Middle Eastern spices with fresh ingredients for a unique wrap.
Ingredients
- Chicken Marinade: 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs sliced, 200 g Greek yogurt (plain full fat), 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1½ tsp ground cumin, 1½ tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp ground turmeric, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, 1½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, Juice of 1 lemon
- Yogurt Sauce: 150 g Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp tahini (optional), 1 garlic clove minced, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, Salt and pepper to taste
- Wraps: 4 large flour or whole wheat tortillas or flatbreads, 1 cup red cabbage finely shredded, 1 cup baby spinach or arugula, ½ cup pomegranate seeds, ½ cup thinly sliced cucumber, ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved, ½ cup pickled red onions or pickles, ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken:
- In a large bowl combine all marinade ingredients Add chicken mix to coat well cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for best flavor)
- Prepare Yogurt Sauce:
- Mix Greek yogurt lemon juice tahini (if using) garlic parsley salt and pepper in a small bowl Chill until ready to use
- Preheat Cooking Surface:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) or heat a grill pan over medium high heat
- Cook Chicken:
- Remove chicken from marinade shaking off excess Arrange on a baking sheet or grill pan Roast or grill for 15 20 minutes turning once until fully cooked and slightly charred at edges Let rest 5 minutes then slice or shred
- Warm Wraps:
- Warm tortillas or flatbreads briefly in a dry pan or oven
- Assemble Wraps:
- Spread a generous spoonful of yogurt sauce on each wrap Layer with spinach arugula cabbage cucumber tomatoes pickles and chicken Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and mint
- Serve:
- Roll up tightly slice in half if desired and serve immediately
Save Sharing this shawarma wrap with family has made holiday meals even more special and memorable.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this wrap with a dry Riesling or a refreshing pomegranate spritzer to enhance the festive flavors.
Substitutions
Substitute turkey for chicken for a more traditional Christmas protein or use gluten free wraps to suit dietary needs.
Storage Tips
Store leftover marinated chicken separately from the wraps and vegetables to keep ingredients fresh. Wraps are best assembled just before serving.
Save This shawarma wrap brings festive cheer to any holiday meal with its bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
Recipe Guide
- → How long should the chicken marinate for optimal flavor?
Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but allowing it to rest overnight enhances the depth of the spices and tenderness.
- → Can I substitute the chicken thighs with other proteins?
Yes, turkey or chicken breasts can be used. Adjust cooking time to ensure the protein is fully cooked but remains moist.
- → What is the best way to warm the flatbreads?
Warm them briefly in a dry pan or oven until pliable and slightly toasted for better wrapping and texture.
- → How can I make the yogurt sauce creamier?
Add tahini to the yogurt sauce for a rich, nutty flavor and creamier texture, adjusting to taste.
- → Are there any suggested side drink pairings?
Pair this dish with a dry Riesling or pomegranate spritzer to complement the bright and spiced flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Use gluten-free flatbreads or tortillas to make it suitable for gluten-free preferences.