Name: Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Spiced Chicken and Creamy Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3-4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon all spice or 7 spice; ½ teaspoon turmeric; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons tahini paste; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Pinch of salt & pepper; 6-8 medium tortillas, thin pitas, or saj bread; Pickled turnips or pickles, thinly sliced; Thinly sliced onion; Thinly sliced tomato (optional); Chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 36 reviews

If you are craving a meal that is bursting with bold, aromatic flavors and simple to prepare, the Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Spiced Chicken and Creamy Sauce Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Tender chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, perfectly complemented by a luscious, creamy shawarma sauce, all wrapped up in warm tortillas or pita bread—this dish is an absolute showstopper for lunch or dinner. Every bite is a perfect balance of juicy, spicy, and tangy, making it so satisfying and comforting that you’ll want to whip it up again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with chunky pieces of light beige meat covered in a thick, yellowish-brown creamy sauce that has visible specks of spices and herbs. The sauce clings closely to the meat pieces, giving them a textured, rich look. The bowl is about three-quarters full, and the sauce is spread evenly around the meat, with some coating the sides of the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether enhancing the flavor, adding texture, or delivering vibrancy. Let’s talk about these essentials before we dive in!

Chicken breasts: Opt for 1.5 pounds of tender, lean chicken breasts for the perfect protein base that soaks up all the delicious spices.
Greek yogurt: Provides a creamy tang and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
Lemon or lime juice: Adds fresh acidity to balance the spices and brighten the overall flavor.
Olive oil: Essential for cooking and adding a smooth richness to the marinade.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and depth.
Ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt: These primary spices bring the classic shawarma warmth and earthiness.
Allspice or 7 spice, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, black pepper: Each adds layers of complexity and vibrant color.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Base for the creamy shawarma sauce, lending coolness and tang.
Mayonnaise: Gives the sauce a rich, silky texture that clings beautifully to the wrap.
Tahini paste: Adds a subtle nuttiness to the sauce, elevating its flavor profile.
Pickled turnips or pickles: These tangy, crisp additions cut through the richness and add crunch.
Onion and tomato: Provide fresh bursts of sweetness and juiciness.
Parsley: A bright, herbaceous finish that ties all the flavors together.
Tortillas, thin pitas, or saj bread: Soft but sturdy options perfect for wrapping all those wonderful ingredients.

How to Make Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Spiced Chicken and Creamy Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin strips or small bite-size pieces—this helps the marinade penetrate beautifully and ensures quick, even cooking. Toss the chicken in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and the aromatic blend of spices. Mix well to coat every piece evenly. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with stunning flavor but also keeps it incredibly tender. If you have the time, letting the chicken sit in the marinade for up to 24 hours makes the flavors even more pronounced.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a heavy-duty pan over high heat; this will give your chicken those coveted golden edges. Place the marinated chicken into the hot pan and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be nicely browned and cooked through, with all those spices creating a fragrant, flavorful crust. Resist the urge to overcrowd the pan—giving the chicken space to sizzle helps it develop the best texture.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Shawarma Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, blend together sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, tahini paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until completely smooth and creamy. This luscious sauce brings the perfect cool, tangy counterpoint to the warm, spiced chicken and turns the wraps into a divine experience.

Step 4: Assemble the Wraps

Lay out your choice of tortillas, pita, or saj bread on a clean surface, preferably on parchment paper for easy wrapping. Start with a generous heap of the spiced chicken, then layer on pickled turnips or pickles, thinly sliced onions, tomatoes if you like, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Drizzle plenty of that creamy shawarma sauce over the top, fold the wrap tightly, and get ready for that next mouthwatering step.

Step 5: Toast for the Perfect Finish (Optional)

If you love a crispy exterior, brush your wrapped shawarma lightly with olive oil and toast it in the same pan you cooked the chicken in. Since the pan holds residual spices, this step infuses even more flavor into the wrap while creating a satisfyingly golden-brown crust. It’s optional, but highly recommended for added texture and taste.

How to Serve Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Spiced Chicken and Creamy Sauce Recipe

The image shows an open flat white tortilla on a white marbled surface with several layers in the center. The first layer is grilled, golden-brown pieces of seasoned chicken. On top of the chicken, there are slices of red tomato and thin strips of purple onion, mixed with bright red pickled peppers. Fresh green chopped herbs are scattered over the layers. A spoon is pouring creamy white sauce over everything. Around the tortilla, there are small white bowls holding extra sliced tomatoes, onion with herbs, chopped red pickled peppers, and more creamy sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes like fresh parsley, a sprinkle of sumac, or extra pickled vegetables add visual appeal and a burst of flavor that lift your Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Spiced Chicken and Creamy Sauce Recipe to the next level. Don’t underestimate how much a few fresh herbs or a dash of spice can brighten the plate and excite your palate.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, pair these wraps with simple sides like a crisp cucumber salad, roasted garlic potatoes, or fragrant rice pilaf. These accompaniments bring balance and complement the shawarma’s bold, savory notes perfectly, making the whole experience more rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Slice your assembled wraps diagonally and serve them in a beautiful basket lined with parchment paper. Add small bowls of extra shawarma sauce for dipping on the side. For a picnic or casual feast, wrap individual portions tightly in foil to keep them warm and portable. Presentation is all about making the already great flavors feel extra special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the cooked chicken separately from the wraps and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, the bread stays fresh and the chicken keeps its juicy texture. The components will keep for up to three days, making a quick, delicious meal or snack easy to reassemble.

Freezing

Chicken shawarma freezes wonderfully. Freeze the cooked chicken in meal-sized portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Avoid freezing the sauce or bread, as their texture may change upon thawing. When you’re ready, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist. Toast the wraps separately to revive their softness and warmth. Add fresh sauce when serving to maintain its creamy texture. This three-step approach keeps every element tasting fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and more flavorful. Just slice and marinate them the same way. They might take a bit longer to cook but are a delicious alternative.

Is the shawarma sauce spicy?

The creamy shawarma sauce is mild and tangy. If you’d like a bit of heat, you can add a touch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the blend for a spicy kick.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas or serve the shawarma over a bed of rice or salad instead of traditional pita or wraps.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 20 minutes is great to infuse flavor, but for the best taste and tenderness, marinate up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have tahini paste for the sauce?

If tahini isn’t available, you can substitute it with a little extra mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, though the flavor will be slightly different. Tahini adds a nutty depth that’s uniquely delightful.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Spiced Chicken and Creamy Sauce Recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. The harmonious blend of spices, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings wrapped in soft bread is simply unbeatable. Whether for a quick dinner or impressing friends, this recipe delivers on flavor and comfort every single time. Go ahead, bring a taste of this incredible shawarma experience into your home!