Pin 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 wrap always brings warmth to our holiday gatherings and reminds me of shared joyful moments with family around the table.
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
- Marinate the 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 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
- 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/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
Pin This recipe always lights up the festive season allowing family and friends to gather and enjoy a delicious meal together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the wraps with a dry Riesling or refreshing pomegranate spritzer for a festive touch.
Variations
Substitute turkey for chicken as a traditional Christmas protein or add toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
Storage Tips
Keep components separate and store in airtight containers Refrigerate for up to 2 days for best freshness.
Pin This wrap delivers a perfect balance of spices and freshness making every bite a festive celebration.
Recipe FAQ
- → What are the key spices used in the chicken marinade?
The marinade features cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne, salt, and pepper, providing a warm, aromatic profile.
- → Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, marinating the chicken for at least one hour or overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- → What alternatives are available for the wraps?
Use flour, whole wheat, or gluten-free tortillas or flatbreads depending on dietary needs.
- → How is the yogurt sauce made?
The sauce combines Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, chopped parsley, tahini (optional), salt, and pepper, blended until smooth.
- → What ingredients add crunch and freshness to the wrap?
Red cabbage, baby spinach or arugula, thinly sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, pickled onions, pomegranate seeds, and fresh mint all contribute crispness and vibrant flavor.