As the sun begins to set and the aroma of spices fills the air, there’s something truly special about gathering around the dinner table for a homemade feast. I found myself craving a dish that combines warmth, comfort, and a little bit of adventure. Enter my Chicken Crepes Shawarma: a delightful fusion that transforms simple crepes into a culinary treasure trove. With the crispy outer layer enveloping tender, spiced chicken and a rich, creamy sauce, each bite is a celebration of flavors that checks all the right boxes for family dinners or special occasions.
This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about bringing everyone together. It’s perfect for Iftar during Ramadan or any time you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Easy to whip together and bursting with flavor, these Chicken Crepes Shawarma are sure to become a family favorite! So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious journey that will elevate your home-cooked meals to a whole new level.
Why love these Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
Comfort Food Redefined: Indulge in a dish that brings joy to the table, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Crispy, Creamy Bliss: Experience the delightful contrast of a crispy exterior and a creamy, spiced filling that’s simply irresistible.
Easy to Make: Whip these up even on busy days with straightforward steps and just a handful of ingredients.
Versatile Options: Enjoy these crepes with a variety of fillings; consider grilled vegetables for a tasty vegetarian twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Defined by rich flavors, your loved ones will leave the table satisfied and asking for seconds!
Give these indulgent crepes a try, and you might find a new favorite in your dinner repertoire!
Chicken Crepes Shawarma Ingredients
For the Crepes
• All-purpose flour – For structure in crepes; can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Eggs – Provide richness and binding for a silky batter.
• Milk – Adds moisture and tenderness to elevate your crepes.
• Oil – Introduces fat for flavor and helps achieve a flawless texture.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the crepes.
For the Filling
• Boneless chicken breast – The heartiness factor; seasoned to perfection makes it flavorful.
• Paprika – Adds mild heat and vibrant color to the chicken.
• Garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, chili powder – Create a warm, comforting spice blend that defines the filling.
• Bell peppers and onions – Bring freshness and texture to every mouthful.
For the Creamy Shawarma Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Acts as a rich base for your shawarma sauce.
• Plain yogurt – Infuses tanginess and creaminess; a key flavor enhancer.
• Lemon juice – Brightens and elevates the sauce, making it pop!
• Garlic paste – Deepens the flavor profile of the shawarma sauce.
For Assembly
• Shredded mozzarella or mixed cheese – Melty goodness that ties the filling together beautifully.
• Butter or oil – Essential for pan-toasting crepes to golden perfection, ensuring that crispy texture.
Dive into these heavenly Chicken Crepes Shawarma and watch them disappear in a flash!
How to Make Chicken Crepes Shawarma
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Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, eggs, milk, oil, and salt until smooth. Let it rest for about 20 minutes to develop the flavors.
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Cook the crepes: Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling to cover the base. Cook until the edges lift and the surface is set, about 1-2 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1 minute until lightly golden. Set aside on a plate.
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Sauté the chicken: In the same pan, add a little oil before the sliced boneless chicken breast. Season with paprika, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, and chili powder. Cook until fully cooked and juicy, stirring occasionally, about 6-8 minutes.
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Add the veggies: Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions with the chicken. Sauté until the peppers are soft, roughly 3-4 minutes.
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Make the sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, plain yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, and a pinch of paprika and salt. Mix well to form a smooth, creamy shawarma sauce.
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Assemble the crepes: Take a cooked crepe, spread a generous tablespoon of sauce, then layer with the chicken filling. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before folding or rolling the crepe closed.
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Toast for crispiness: In the same pan, add a touch of butter or oil, and place the assembled crepes seam-side down. Toast for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Crepes Shawarma
- Rest the Batter: Allow the crepe batter to sit for at least 20 minutes to enhance its texture and flavor; this step is essential for perfect crepes.
- Avoid Overfilling: Keep the filling moderate to prevent soggy crepes; too much filling may interfere with their crispy texture.
- Toast Seam-Side Down: Start toasting your crepes seam-side down to ensure they stay sealed while achieving that golden crust.
- Customize Your Spices: Experiment with different spices in the filling for varied flavors; mixing in sumac or coriander can elevate your Chicken Crepes Shawarma.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the filled crepes in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in a pan for the best texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Crepes Shawarma are a fantastic option for busy cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the crepe batter and cook the crepes up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking. The chicken filling can also be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the filling gently and assemble the crepes with the creamy sauce, then toast them in the skillet for that delicious crispy finish. This way, you can enjoy delightful home-cooked meals with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Chicken Crepes Shawarma Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and personalize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with grilled eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms for a hearty, flavorful filling.
This twist not only makes it vegetarian but also loaded with earthy flavors. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the chicken seasoning for a fiery enhancement.
Those who enjoy a bit of heat will love this fiery adaptation! -
Creamy Veggie Sauce: Use tahini or a herbed yogurt sauce instead of the shawarma sauce for a unique twist.
This will introduce a creamy layer of sesame flavor that complements the veggies beautifully. -
Cheese Variants: Experiment with feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangy and creamy surprise.
The different cheese options can transform the flavor profile, giving it a refreshing edge. -
Crispy Add-ons: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions inside the crepes for added crunch.
This extra texture will keep everyone coming back for more! -
Citrus Zest: Mix in some grated lemon or lime zest into the shawarma sauce for a bright, zesty layer.
A hint of citrus will elevate the whole dish and brighten those rich flavors. -
Protein Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or beef strips for a quick yet delectable filling option.
This is a time-saver when you’re looking for a fast meal, without compromising on taste. -
Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh cilantro or parsley into the filling for a burst of fresh flavor.
The herbs will not only add color but also bring a refreshing brightness to each bite.
What to Serve with Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
As you dive into the irresistibly crispy and creamy layers of Chicken Crepes Shawarma, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights.
- Fresh Salad: A light, zesty salad with mixed greens and lemon dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the crepes.
- Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with warm pita bread offers a delightful contrast, enhancing flavors and adding a satisfying dip element.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred vegetables like zucchini and eggplant can highlight the spices in the filling while bringing vibrant colors to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and provides an irresistible crunch, perfect for scooping up any extra sauce!
- Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt-based dip seasoned with herbs enhances flavors while serving as a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink adds brightness to your meal, and the minty undertones will harmonize beautifully with the dish’s spices.
- Baklava: For dessert, the sweet, flaky layers of baklava contrast perfectly with the savory crepes, making for an indulgent end to your meal.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: A cold dish that combines tender rice and spices brings a unique texture to your meal while staying on the Mediterranean theme.
Storage Tips for Chicken Crepes Shawarma
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Fridge: Store leftover filled Chicken Crepes Shawarma in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: Freeze assembled crepes individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until crisp; about 3-4 minutes per side will keep that delightful crunch intact.
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Make-Ahead: Prepare crepes and filling ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge or freezer, and assemble just before serving for the best experience.
Chicken Crepes Shawarma Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for chicken breasts that are pinkish and plump, with no dark spots. When selecting bell peppers, vibrant colors without blemishes or soft spots ensure freshness. Onions should feel firm and heavy for their size.
What are the best storage methods for leftover Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
Very good question! Store any filled crepes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s crucial to let them cool completely before sealing to keep them fresh. If you notice any condensation, lay a paper towel in between the crepes to absorb moisture.
Can I freeze Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap each assembled crepe tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat.
What should I do if my crepes are tearing or sticking?
Don’t worry; this can happen to the best of us! If your crepes are sticking, make sure your pan is adequately preheated and greased. Try letting the crepe cook a little longer on the first side before flipping, as the edges will start to lift naturally. If they tear, don’t stress—just perfect the art as you go!
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy allergies, you can make a vegan shawarma sauce using avocado or cashew cream instead of mayonnaise and yogurt. Remember to check the labels for all ingredients, especially for packaged spices, as some may contain allergens.
How long does it take to prepare the Chicken Crepes Shawarma?
In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour from start to finish. This includes time for making the crepes, cooking the chicken and vegetables, mixing the sauce, and assembling! It’s a perfect way to spend a cozy evening with loved ones.
Delicious Chicken Crepes Shawarma: Crispy Comfort Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, eggs, milk, oil, and salt until smooth. Let it rest for about 20 minutes.
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling to cover the base. Cook until edges lift (1-2 mins). Flip and cook (1 min) until golden.
- In the same pan, add a little oil and sauté sliced boneless chicken breast. Season with paprika, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, and chili powder. Cook until fully cooked (6-8 mins).
- Toss in sliced bell peppers and onions with chicken. Sauté until peppers are soft (3-4 mins).
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, paprika, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Take a crepe, spread sauce, layer with chicken filling, and sprinkle cheese. Fold or roll the crepe closed.
- In the same pan, add butter or oil, place assembled crepes seam-side down, and toast (2-3 mins on each side). Serve hot.