Home › Recipes › Lunch ›Israeli ›Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Tahini Sauce and Pickled Vegetables
LUNCH

Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Tahini Sauce and Pickled Vegetables

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this homemade chicken shawarma wrap. Tender, spiced chicken is nestled in warm pita bread with creamy tahini sauce and crunchy pickled vegetables for a satisfying and authentic meal.

✎
HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

In a medium bowl, toss the chicken strips with the shawarma spice blend and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Ensure all chicken is evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

02

While the chicken marinates, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable consistency. Season with a pinch of salt if desired.

03

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

04

Warm the pita bread. You can do this by placing them directly on a gas burner for 15-20 seconds per side, in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side, or in a microwave for 15-20 seconds until soft and pliable.

05

To assemble the wraps, spread a generous amount of tahini sauce inside each warm pita. Fill with the cooked chicken shawarma and top with a handful of pickled vegetables. Fold or roll the pita to create a wrap.

06

Serve immediately and enjoy the authentic flavors of this Israeli-inspired dish.

About This Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this homemade chicken shawarma wrap. Tender, spiced chicken is nestled in warm pita bread with creamy tahini sauce and crunchy pickled vegetables for a satisfying and authentic meal.
Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Tahini Sauce and Pickled Vegetables
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
✦
♨

Chef's Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shawarma spice blend for a little heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished wrap brightens all the flavors.
↔

Easy Substitutions

If you don't have chicken thighs, chicken breast can be used, but cook it for a shorter time to prevent drying out. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with sliced halloumi cheese or seasoned chickpeas. If pickled turnips are unavailable, use quick-pickled red onions or cucumbers.
▱

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cooked chicken and pickled vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tahini sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet before assembling fresh wraps.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wraps with a side of Israeli salad (diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions), a bowl of hummus, or a simple green salad with a lemon-tahini dressing. They also pair wonderfully with a side of crispy falafel.

Common Mistakes

Overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken can lead to steaming instead of browning, resulting in less flavorful chicken. Cook in batches if necessary. Overcooking the chicken will make it dry and tough, so watch it carefully. Not warming the pita bread enough can make it stiff and prone to tearing when rolled. Ensure it's pliable before filling. Using a tahini sauce that is too thick will make it difficult to spread and less enjoyable; adjust with water until it's creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Cooked chicken can be stored for up to 3 days.

What kind of pita bread should I use?

Use soft, pliable pita bread. Thicker, pocketless pitas work well for wraps, but traditional pocket pitas can also be used by opening them up.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pita bread or serve the shawarma over a bed of rice or salad greens instead of in a wrap.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to great shawarma is the spice blend. While store-bought is convenient, a homemade blend often offers a fresher, more vibrant flavor. Common shawarma spices include cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cinnamon or allspice. Toasting whole spices lightly before grinding them can elevate the aroma and depth of your blend. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice levels to your preference.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK

Reviews

☆

No reviews yet

Be the first person to review this recipe.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Made this recipe?

Tell us how it turned out.

Your review will be checked before appearing publicly.