Grilled Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce (41 Minutes)

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This dish features succulent grilled chicken, marinated in aromatic spices, and wrapped in soft pita bread along with sautéed onions.

It’s served with a creamy and rich sauce that complements the wraps perfectly and can be used for dipping or even smothering.

These wraps are not only satisfying but also packed with a variety of textures and flavors, making them an excellent choice for a fulfilling meal any day of the week.

  • Prep Time: 11 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 41 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken Shawarma:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 pita bread rounds (look for the thin pitas)
  • Hot sauce for drizzling

For the Sauteed Onions:

  • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Garlic Sauce:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a lighter version)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken (30 minutes + marinating time): In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer for more flavor.
  2. Grill Chicken (20 minutes): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 10 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
  3. Saute Onions (10 minutes): While the chicken is grilling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
  4. Prepare Garlic Sauce (5 minutes): In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
  5. Assemble Wraps (5 minutes): Warm the pita bread on the grill or in a dry skillet. Lay out each pita bread and place a portion of the sliced chicken and sautéed onions in the center. Drizzle with garlic sauce.
  6. Serve (1 minute): Roll up the pita wraps and serve them with extra garlic sauce on the side for dipping or additional smothering. Drizzle hot sauce on top if desired.

Notes

The success of grilled chicken shawarma lies in the marination of the chicken, ensuring it’s flavorful and tender. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth to the dish.

The sautéed onions should be cooked until just softened to add sweetness and texture. The garlic sauce acts as a creamy and garlicky complement to the wraps, enhancing the overall taste.

These wraps are a wonderful combination of savory and aromatic elements, offering a satisfying and enjoyable meal.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Pair this with...

Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Begin with some ripe tomatoes and slice them into wedges. Take a cucumber and cut it into thin rounds. Mix them together in a bowl. Add a bit of olive oil and a splash of vinegar—red or white wine vinegar works best. Season with some salt and pepper to taste. If you've got some basil or dill on hand, you can chop that up and throw it in too.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.

Strawberry Smoothie

You'll need about 1 cup of fresh strawberries (or frozen if you've got 'em), 1/2 a banana to add creaminess, 1 cup of your favorite milk (almond, cow’s, soy – whatever floats your boat), and a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness. Optional: a dollop of yogurt for added richness and probiotics. Pop everything into your blender, give it a whirl until it's silky smooth, and pour into a chilled glass. If you're feeling a tad adventurous, toss in a handful of oats or your choice of protein powder for an extra kick.

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