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Chicken Shawarma Sandwich
Theo Calderon

Homemade Chicken Shawarma Sandwich

This Chicken Shawarma Sandwich combines tender marinated chicken, creamy yogurt sauce, and crisp fresh vegetables wrapped in warm naan or pita bread. An authentic Middle Eastern street food classic, made easy at home with bold spices and family-friendly steps.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 7 oz plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic (grated or pressed)
  • 1/4 tsp dried dill
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 medium cucumber, sliced
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion sliced thin
  • 4 naan or pita bread

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • grill or grill pan
  • knife and cutting board
  • refrigerator
  • foil (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cinnamon, oregano, salt, nutmeg, and cloves. Coat chicken breasts, cover, and refrigerate 4+ hours or overnight.
  2. Mix Greek yogurt with garlic, dill, and salt until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
  3. Preheat grill or pan to medium-high. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and 165°F internal temperature.
  4. Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
  5. Wash and chop lettuce, slice cucumber, tomatoes, and onion just before serving.
  6. Spread yogurt sauce on naan or pita. Add sliced chicken, top with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and onion. Roll tightly and wrap in foil if desired.

Notes

For extra authenticity, add toum (garlic sauce) or pickled turnips. Use naan, pita, or even tortillas depending on what you have. Make it spicier with cayenne, lighter with lettuce wraps, or meal-prep friendly by freezing cooked chicken strips.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sodium: 640 mg