If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Middle Eastern street food, then look no further than Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps. This culinary masterpiece features tender, juicy spiced chicken, fresh veggies, and a cool, creamy garlic yogurt sauce that takes it to the next level. The best part? You can serve it as a wrap or in a bowl, making it incredibly versatile for any occasion.
Chicken Shawarma has become wildly popular for good reason—it’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the experience. The delightful mix of succulent chicken marinated in a symphony of spices such as ground cumin, paprika, and turmeric creates a taste explosion that dances on your palate. Adding in crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and shredded lettuce creates a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken. Whether you choose to wrap it in pita or enjoy it as a hearty bowl, each bite will transport you to the bustling streets of the Middle East.
This recipe requires minimal prep time and is perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. The chicken marinates to soak up all those vibrant flavors, while the garlic yogurt sauce adds a cooling element that ties everything together. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices creates a flavor profile that is rich and satisfying, perfect for satisfying your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a wrap in warm pita or as a bowl with grains and veggies.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthier sauces, making it a balanced meal option.
- Quick Prep Time: Easy to prepare with minimal cooking time, making it ideal for busy nights.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into creating your Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps, it’s essential to set up your kitchen properly. Gather all the necessary ingredients and tools you’ll need. You will want to have a cutting board, a sharp knife for slicing the chicken and vegetables, and a grill or a large skillet for cooking the chicken. A mixing bowl for marinating the chicken and another for preparing the garlic yogurt sauce will also be necessary.
Make sure to marinate your chicken in advance—this is where the magic happens as the spices meld together to infuse the meat with flavor. If you’re planning on serving this meal for guests, consider preparing your toppings such as diced cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce or cabbage ahead of time. This will streamline the assembly process and allow you to enjoy your time with family and friends. Clean up is easier if you have everything prepped and ready!
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Cooked rice, couscous, or quinoa
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced tomato
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh parsley or mint leaves
- Warm pita or flatbread
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices: cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling bold), salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture forms a fragrant marinade. Add the chicken thighs and toss them until they are completely coated in the marinade. Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour—however, if you have more time, marinating them for 3-4 hours or even overnight will yield an even richer flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. Heat your grill or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, cooking them for 5–6 minutes on each side until they are nicely charred and cooked through. You’ll know they are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the chicken is resting, it’s the perfect time to whip up the garlic yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and smooth. This sauce is the ultimate complement to the spicy chicken, offering a cooling effect in each bite. Place it in the fridge to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
Step 4: Build Your Bowl or Wrap
Now comes the fun part—assembling your meal! If you’re making a bowl, start by adding a generous scoop of cooked rice, couscous, or quinoa at the base. Top it off with the sliced chicken, fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes, and a handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage. Finally, drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over the top for that creamy finish. If you’re opting for wraps, take a piece of warm pita or flatbread and layer it with the sliced chicken and your choice of toppings. Roll it up tightly, wrap it, and you’re ready to enjoy the flavors of a Middle Eastern street food classic!
Variations
- Protein: Swap the chicken with beef, lamb, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add other toppings like roasted bell peppers, avocado, or olives for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Customize your spice blend by adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs like cilantro or dill.
Cooking Notes
- For best results, allow your chicken to marinate longer to maximize flavor.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness; however, chicken breasts can also be used.
- If cooking in a skillet, consider using a bit of cooking spray or additional oil to prevent sticking.
- Be sure to let the meat rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps with a side of hummus and pita chips for a complete feast.
- Serve with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon for extra crunch.
Tips
- If you’re short on time, marinating the chicken for just an hour still provides great flavor.
- Experiment with different types of grains like bulgur or freekeh for your bowls.
- Top with extra herbs or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for vibrancy.
- For meal prep, store components separately and assemble fresh for a week’s worth of lunches.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (with marinating)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! While chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor, chicken breasts can work if preferred. Just be sure to avoid overcooking them.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently before serving.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables, and you’ll have a tasty vegetarian bowl wrap!
What can I serve with my Chicken Shawarma?
Hummus, tabbouleh, and a simple salad are fantastic accompaniments that complement the flavors of chicken shawarma perfectly.
Conclusion
Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. With their array of fresh ingredients and a rich blend of spices, they provide a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether you choose to embrace the wrap form for a hand-held treat or savor it in a hearty bowl, this dish embodies the joyful spirit of Middle Eastern street food. Don’t hesitate to try variations and substitutes to personalize your meal; the possibilities are endless! We encourage you to share your thoughts or any creative twists you made in the comments below after trying this recipe. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite and happy cooking!
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Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Shawarma Bowl Wraps are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Cooked rice, couscous, or quinoa
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced tomato
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh parsley or mint leaves
- Warm pita or flatbread
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and all the spices: cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling bold), salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture forms a fragrant marinade. Add the chicken thighs and toss them until they are completely coated in the marinade. Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour—however, if you have more time, marinating them for 3-4 hours or even overnight will yield an even richer flavor.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. Heat your grill or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, cooking them for 5–6 minutes on each side until they are nicely charred and cooked through. You’ll know they are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
- While the chicken is resting, it’s the perfect time to whip up the garlic yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and smooth. This sauce is the ultimate complement to the spicy chicken, offering a cooling effect in each bite. Place it in the fridge to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
- Now comes the fun part—assembling your meal! If you’re making a bowl, start by adding a generous scoop of cooked rice, couscous, or quinoa at the base. Top it off with the sliced chicken, fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes, and a handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage. Finally, drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over the top for that creamy finish. If you’re opting for wraps, take a piece of warm pita or flatbread and layer it with the sliced chicken and your choice of toppings. Roll it up tightly, wrap it, and you’re ready to enjoy the flavors of a Middle Eastern street food classic!
Notes
For best results, allow your chicken to marinate longer to maximize flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Protein: 28 g