Quick Healthy Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Whole Wheat Pita

The Chicken Shawarma Wrap with Whole Wheat Pita is a nutritious and flavorful meal that combines marinated chicken with fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a wholesome pita. This dish is not only rich in lean protein from the chicken, but it also provides essential vitamins and minerals from the lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The use of whole wheat pita enhances the wrap's fiber content, supporting digestive health. With probiotics from the yogurt and healthy fats from buffalo ghee, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a balanced and satisfying meal that fuels the body without compromising on taste. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this Chicken Shawarma Wrap is a delicious way to enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine while reaping its health benefits.

Shawarma dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was known as "çevirme," meaning "to turn." The dish evolved over centuries, with various cultures adding their unique twists. Today, shawarma is enjoyed worldwide, often served in wraps or pita, and is celebrated for its flavorful spices and versatility. The use of whole wheat pita adds a modern health-conscious touch, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

- 250g chicken breast, thinly sliced  

- 2 tbsp shawarma spices (a mix of cumin, paprika, turmeric, and garlic powder)  

- 2 tbsp plain yogurt  

- 1 tbsp lemon juice  

- 1 tbsp buffalo ghee (or olive oil)  

- Whole wheat pita bread  

- Lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers (for filling)  

Instructions

1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with yogurt, shawarma spices, and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

2. Heat buffalo ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Assemble the wrap by placing the cooked chicken inside the whole wheat pita and adding lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Nutrition Value:

1. 250g chicken breast, thinly sliced  

- Calories: 275  

- Carbohydrates: 0g  

- Protein: 52g  

- Fat: 6g  

- Sodium: 140mg  

- Cholesterol: 120mg  

- Vitamins: B6, B12, niacin  

- Minerals: phosphorus, selenium  

Nutritional benefit: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair while being low in fat. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.

2. 2 tbsp shawarma spices (a mix of cumin, paprika, turmeric, and garlic powder)  

- Calories: 24  

- Carbohydrates: 5g  

- Protein: 1g  

- Fat: 1g  

- Sodium: 6mg  

- Cholesterol: 0mg  

- Vitamins: A, C, E (from spices like paprika and turmeric)  

- Minerals: iron, magnesium  

Nutritional benefit: Shawarma spices add flavor and aroma while providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can enhance overall health.

3. 2 tbsp plain yogurt  

- Calories: 30  

- Carbohydrates: 2g  

- Protein: 3g  

- Fat: 1.5g  

- Sodium: 40mg  

- Cholesterol: 5mg  

- Vitamins: B2, B12, calcium  

- Minerals: phosphorus, potassium  

Nutritional benefit: Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, which promote gut health and aid digestion, along with providing calcium and protein for bone health.

4. 1 tbsp lemon juice  

- Calories: 4  

- Carbohydrates: 1g  

- Protein: 0g  

- Fat: 0g  

- Sodium: 1mg  

- Cholesterol: 0mg  

- Vitamins: C  

- Minerals: potassium  

Nutritional benefit: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and its acidity helps enhance the flavors of the wrap while aiding in digestion.

5. 1 tbsp buffalo ghee (or olive oil)  

- Calories: 120  

- Carbohydrates: 0g  

- Protein: 0g  

- Fat: 14g  

- Sodium: 0mg  

- Cholesterol: 30mg  

- Vitamins: A, E  

- Minerals: none significant  

Nutritional benefit: Buffalo ghee provides healthy fats that support brain health and hormone production, while also containing fat-soluble vitamins.

6. Whole wheat pita bread  

- Calories: 170  

- Carbohydrates: 35g  

- Protein: 6g  

- Fat: 1.5g  

- Sodium: 330mg  

- Cholesterol: 0mg  

- Vitamins: B vitamins (including B1, B3, B6)  

- Minerals: iron, magnesium, zinc  

Nutritional benefit: Whole wheat pita is a good source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and provides sustained energy.

7. Lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers (for filling)  

- Calories: 30 (total for all vegetables)  

- Carbohydrates: 6g  

- Protein: 1g  

- Fat: 0g  

- Sodium: 20mg  

- Cholesterol: 0mg  

- Vitamins: A, C, K (from tomatoes and lettuce)  

- Minerals: potassium, manganese  

Nutritional benefit: These vegetables add hydration, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the wrap while providing freshness and crunch.