Rotisserie Chicken Shawarma Recipe My Wife Created (So Good!)

This quick and flavorful rotisserie chicken shawarma recipe brings all the rich, spiced flavors of traditional shawarma to your kitchen in under 20 minutes. Using shredded rotisserie chicken makes this meal effortless while still delivering a bold, restaurant-quality taste. 

Why I Love This Chicken Shawarma Recipe with Rotisserie Chicken

The first time I had homemade chicken shawarma was when my wife made it a few weekends ago. The spices were bold and rich, yet the whole thing came together effortlessly. She had used leftover rotisserie chicken we had in the fridge from the night before as a shortcut, and it made the recipe ten times easier than an authentic version, yet it didn't sacrifice any flavor. I had never imagined something so flavorful could be so easy to make! We made it together last weekend so I could share it here on the blog, and thanks to her, you're in for a treat.  

Now, making rotisserie chicken shawarma is my go-to for quick lunches or family dinners because it’s the perfect balance of warm spices, creamy garlic sauce, and fresh toppings wrapped in a soft pita. 

What I love most is how versatile it is — you can make it as spicy or mild as you like and add all your favorite toppings. Whether you're looking to impress guests or just a quick and satisfying meal in minutes, this rotisserie chicken shawarma will never disappoint. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be making it all the time, just like I do!

Ingredients

For The Chicken:

• ½ rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sumac
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

For The Garlic Sauce:

• ⅓ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Serving:

• 4 small pitas
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup tomatoes, diced

How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Shawarma

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a medium pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sumac, paprika, cumin, and lemon zest, stirring for 30 seconds to release the flavors.

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and toss to coat. Spread it out in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Warm the Pitas

Slightly heat the pitas in a dry skillet, on the grill, or in the microwave for a few seconds to make them soft and pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma Wraps

Spread a generous layer of garlic sauce on each pita.

Add the spiced chicken, then top with diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and chopped parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Fold or roll the shawarma wraps and serve immediately with extra garlic sauce on the side.

My Expert Tips

• Toast the Pitas: Lightly toasting the pitas in a dry skillet enhances the flavor and makes them more pliable for wrapping.
• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the chicken for a spicy kick.
• Customize Your Toppings: Try adding pickled cucumbers, feta cheese, or shredded lettuce for extra crunch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make the chicken and garlic sauce ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices give the chicken the most authentic, rich flavor.

FAQ's About This Rotisserie Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes! If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, pan-seared or grilled chicken thighs work great for this recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

I recommend you store the chicken and garlic sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a pan before serving.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! Naan, lavash, or even a soft tortilla can be used instead of the pita bread.

Is there a dairy-free option for the garlic sauce?

You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt and swap the mayo for tahini.

My Final Thoughts

This easy rotisserie chicken shawarma recipe is a lifesaver when you want something flavorful and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s packed with warm, spiced chicken, fresh toppings, and a creamy garlic sauce that brings everything together. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or feeding a crowd, I promise everyone will love it!

More Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes 

• Rotisserie chicken burritos
• Rotisserie chicken and mushroom soup
• Rotisserie chicken sandwich
• Rotisserie chicken pho
• Rotisserie chicken stuffing casserole
• Rotisserie chicken Greek bowls