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 holiday wrap has become a family favorite, especially loved for its blend of festive flavors and easy preparation.
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 Oven or Grill:
- 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 or 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 This wrap often brings the whole family together especially around the holidays for a quick yet festive meal.
Tips for Serving
Serve with a side of pomegranate spritzer or a dry Riesling to complement the spices perfectly.
Variations
Substitute turkey for chicken for a traditional Christmas protein or use gluten-free wraps to accommodate dietary needs.
Storage
Wrap components can be prepared ahead and assembled just before serving to keep flavors fresh and vibrant.
Save A joyful and flavorful wrap that combines festive colors and hearty Middle Eastern spices perfect for any holiday gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, though overnight refrigeration enhances the spices deeper.
- → Can I substitute the chicken thighs with other protein?
Yes, turkey can be used for a leaner alternative, maintaining the same marinating and cooking methods.
- → What type of spices are used in the marinade?
The marinade combines warm spices like cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne for a balanced, aromatic profile.
- → How is the yogurt sauce prepared?
The sauce blends Greek yogurt, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper for a creamy, tangy complement.
- → What vegetables are included in the wrap?
Fresh baby spinach or arugula, finely shredded red cabbage, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, pickled onions or pickles, pomegranate seeds, and fresh mint leaves.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free tortillas or flatbreads to adapt this dish for gluten-free needs without altering flavors.