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 brings festive cheer to our holiday table every year and is always a crowd-pleaser among family and friends.
Ingredients
- For the 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
- For the 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
- For the 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
- Step 1:
- 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)
- Step 2:
- For the yogurt sauce mix Greek yogurt lemon juice tahini (if using) garlic parsley salt and pepper in a small bowl Chill until ready to use
- Step 3:
- Preheat oven to 220℃ (425℉) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat
- Step 4:
- 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
- Step 5:
- Warm tortillas or flatbreads briefly in a dry pan or oven
- Step 6:
- To assemble 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
- Step 7:
- Roll up tightly slice in half if desired and serve immediately
Save Family gatherings are made more special with this wrap as kids and adults all enjoy the vibrant flavors and festive colors together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these wraps with a dry Riesling or a pomegranate spritzer to complement the spices and freshness of the ingredients.
Dietary Notes
Contains dairy and gluten depending on wrap choice Check allergen information if you have sensitivities for a safe meal.
Storage Tips
Wraps can be assembled ahead Are best served fresh but can be stored wrapped tightly in fridge for up to 24 hours.
Save This wrap offers a unique holiday meal that is both delicious and visually appealing perfectly suited for festive celebrations.
Cooking Guide
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, though overnight marination deeply enhances the spices.
- → Can I substitute other proteins for chicken?
Turkey works well as a substitute, offering a similar texture and flavor profile when marinated in the same yogurt-spice mixture.
- → What type of wraps are recommended?
Flour or whole wheat tortillas or flatbreads hold the fillings nicely; gluten-free wraps can be used for dietary needs.
- → How is the yogurt sauce prepared?
Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, tahini (optional), garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper, then chill until serving.
- → What vegetables complement the chicken best?
Fresh spinach or arugula, red cabbage, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, pickled onions or pickles, pomegranate seeds, and mint offer a vibrant mix of textures and flavors.
- → Can this dish be grilled instead of roasted?
Yes, grilling the marinated chicken imparts a smoky char that adds depth and enhances the taste.