If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap is exactly what you need! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma that’s juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe takes advantage of your Easy Air Fryer to create the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma, full of bold shawarma spices and marinated in a rich, tangy yogurt sauce. Wrap it all up in a warm pita or flatbread for the ultimate Chicken Shawarma Wrap Recipe that everyone will love.
If you’re searching for easy Air Fryer dinner recipes that bring bold flavors to your dinner table, this Chicken Shawarma Wrap is a winner. It’s an easy air fryer recipe for chicken that makes a great chicken main dish recipe or even a fun, handheld snack for a lighter meal.
Whether you enjoy it with Chicken Shawarma Rice or stuffed inside a wrap, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation of chicken dinner recipes. With so many ways to enjoy it, you’ll never run out of ideas for this simple yet flavorful dish. Plus, it’s a great way to get your fix of chicken wraps and shawarma wraps with minimal effort. So, let’s dive in and start cooking this delicious Air Fryer Shawarma tonight!
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap: A Simple, Flavorful Meal
If you love the rich, spiced flavor of chicken shawarma but don’t want to spend hours making it, this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap is the perfect solution! It’s easy, quick, and oh-so-delicious. The air fryer gives the chicken that perfect crispy outside and juicy inside, all with way less oil than traditional frying. You can have this wrap ready in less than 30 minutes—perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade and full of flavor.
What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add whatever toppings you like—fresh veggies, creamy sauces, or even pickled onions. Plus, it’s just the right mix of savory and tangy with a little kick of spice. You’re gonna love it!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless (I use thighs because they stay juicy, but chicken breasts work too)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (this is optional if you don’t like things too spicy)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Wrap:
- Pita bread or flatbreads (or any kind of wrap you like)
- Fresh veggies (cucumbers, tomatoes, onions are a great combo)
- Tahini sauce or garlic sauce (this really brings it all together!)
Step by Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing together all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. You’ll need the olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if you like heat), salt, pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic. This is where all the magic happens—the spices blend together to make that bold, savory flavor that shawarma is known for.
Now, cut your chicken thighs into strips or leave them whole if you want big chunks. Place the chicken in the marinade, making sure it’s all coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes—if you’ve got a little extra time, go ahead and marinate it for up to 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavor the chicken absorbs!
2. Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy edge. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd it—if you need to cook in batches, that’s totally fine. Air fry the chicken for about 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through so it cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Prepare the Wraps
While the chicken is cooking, get your veggies ready. Slice up some cucumber, tomato, and onion for that fresh crunch. You can even toss in some lettuce or pickles if you’re feeling adventurous! Also, warm up your pita bread or flatbreads in the air fryer for about 1-2 minutes, or heat them up in a skillet if you like them a little crispier.
4. Assemble the Wrap
Once your chicken is done, slice it up into smaller pieces if you cooked it whole. Grab your pita or flatbread and lay it out flat. Place a generous amount of chicken in the center, then top it with your fresh veggies. If you love sauces (who doesn’t?!), drizzle some tahini sauce or garlic sauce over the top. Wrap it all up tightly, and you’re good to go!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Now that your wrap is all rolled up, cut it in half, if you like, and dig in. You’ve got a tasty, juicy chicken shawarma wrap ready to be devoured. It’s like taking a bite of something from your favorite restaurant, but in the comfort of your own home.
A Few Tips for Success:
- Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: I love using chicken thighs because they’re juicier, but if you prefer chicken breasts, you can definitely use those instead. Just keep an eye on the cook time because breasts tend to cook a little faster.
- Adjust the Spice: The cayenne pepper adds a little heat, but you can skip it if you want a milder dish. Alternatively, you can add more if you like it spicy! You’re in charge of the flavor here.
- Toppings: The beauty of this recipe is that you can add whatever toppings you like. Hummus, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and even some pickled veggies can give it a fun twist!
Why This Recipe is So Great
What makes this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap special is how quick and easy it is. You get all the flavor without having to spend hours in the kitchen, and the air fryer makes it even faster! Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to deep frying. The spices really bring the chicken to life, and when you add the veggies and sauce, you get the perfect balance of freshness and richness.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful and satisfying. You can even meal prep the chicken ahead of time and throw it together when you’re ready to eat!
FAQs for Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that chicken thighs are juicier and tend to stay more tender. If you use chicken breasts, just be sure to check the internal temperature (165°F) to avoid overcooking them.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it marinate for 30 minutes to a few hours will really let the spices soak in.
3. Can I make this recipe with a different protein?
You can use lamb, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for different proteins
4. Can I use a different sauce than tahini or garlic sauce?
You can switch things up with other sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce. It all depends on your preference and what you have on hand.
5. Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of the air fryer?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
6. How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and any sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to keep it crispy.
7. Can I freeze the chicken shawarma?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the air fryer or oven for the best results.
8. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will help the flavors develop even more!
9. What can I serve with the Chicken Shawarma Wrap?
This wrap pairs great with a side of Mediterranean rice, tabbouleh, or even crispy roasted potatoes. You can also serve it with a light salad or some pickled vegetables for extra crunch and tang.
10. Can I make this recipe into a salad?
Instead of wrapping the chicken in pita, you can serve it over a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions with a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a healthy and refreshing salad.
In conclusion, this Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap is the perfect solution for anyone craving a flavorful, easy Air Fryer dinner that’s both quick and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy Air Fried Chicken at its best—crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re making Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma or using Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation of chicken dinner recipes. It’s one of the best Air Fryer recipes chicken for busy weeknight dinners when you want something tasty and effortless.
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wrap Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic minced
For the Wrap:
- 4 pita or flatbreads
- Fresh veggies: cucumber tomato, onion (sliced)
- 1/4 cup tahini sauce or garlic sauce optional
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken (15 minutes to 30 minutes):
- In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Cut chicken thighs into strips or leave them whole.
- Coat the chicken in the marinade, making sure it’s fully covered. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer for extra flavor).
Cook the Chicken (15-20 minutes):
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little olive oil.
- Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary).
- Air fry the chicken for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Prepare the Wraps (5 minutes):
- While the chicken is cooking, slice your vegetables: cucumber, tomato, and onion.
- Warm the pita or flatbreads in the air fryer or on a skillet for 1-2 minutes.
Assemble the Wrap:
- Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into smaller pieces if cooked whole.
- Lay the chicken onto the warm pita or flatbread.
- Top with fresh veggies and drizzle with tahini or garlic sauce if desired.
- Roll up the wrap tightly, and your Chicken Shawarma Wrap is ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes or up to a few hours. If short on time, 15 minutes works well.
- Air Fryer Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like pickled onions, fresh herbs, or lettuce for extra crunch.
This Chicken Shawarma Wrap offers all the bold flavors of traditional Mediterranean Chicken Shawarma, with the convenience of the Air Fryer. The shawarma spices bring out a deliciously rich taste, and the yogurt-marinated chicken makes every bite a delight. It’s also versatile—enjoy it as a wrap or even as a bowl with Chicken Shawarma Rice.
With this Chicken Shawarma Recipe, you can explore endless variations, whether you prefer it with fresh veggies, creamy sauces, or crispy chicken slices. It’s one of those easy Air Fryer recipes that can be adapted to fit any craving.
So if you’re looking for an easy Air Fryer chicken dinner or a quick Air Fryer Shawarma dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to check out other Airfryer recipes for more delicious air fry dinners and chicken main dish recipes to make your meal planning easier and more exciting!
