Sunday December 10, 2023

Utilizing low-carb tortillas and marinated chicken, Keto-friendly Chicken Shawarma Wraps offer a flavorful and satisfying Mediterranean experience without the extra carbs.

This recipe draws inspiration from the traditional Middle Eastern shawarma, a dish with a rich history dating  back centuries.  Shawarma, originally made with lamb or beef, has evolved to include chicken variations, making it more accessible to diverse palates.

Marinating the chicken in a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic, infuses the dish with delightful flavors.   Add in a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce for a burst of texture and freshness. For extra authenticity, consider adding pickles or a dash of sumac.

These wraps provide a perfect meal for those following a ketogenic diet, as they are low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein. Each wrap typically contains around 400-500 calories and 5-7 grams of net carbs, making them a guilt-free option for lunch or dinner.

To store any leftovers, wrap the individual components separately and refrigerate. The marinated chicken can be frozen for longer-term storage.

One famous personality who loves Keto-friendly Chicken Shawarma Wraps is the renowned celebrity chef and health enthusiast, Gordon Ramsay.

His love for Mediterranean cuisine and low-carb dishes makes these wraps a hit in his culinary repertoire.

So, whip up these delectable wraps and enjoy a tasty and healthy meal inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Low-carb tortillas or lettuce leaves (for a carb-free option)
  • Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce
  • Optional toppings: pickles, olives, sumac

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well to create the marinade.
  3. Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight to allow the flavors to develop.
  5. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
  6. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
  7. Warm the low-carb tortillas in a dry pan or microwave them for a few seconds until pliable.
  8. To assemble the wraps, spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce onto each tortilla.
  9. Add a layer of the cooked chicken slices, followed by sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and any other optional toppings you desire.
  10. Roll the tortilla tightly to form a wrap.
  11. If using lettuce leaves, simply place the filling on the leaves and roll them up like a burrito.
  12. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Keto-friendly Chicken Shawarma Wraps!

Feel free to customize the wraps with your favorite low-carb vegetables and spices. These wraps make for a perfect on-the-go meal or a delightful lunch or dinner option for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. Enjoy!