Jordanian Chicken Wraps

Authentic Jordanian Chicken Wraps Recipe - Flavorful Middle Eastern Cuisine

Region / culture: Jordan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Jordanian Chicken Wraps are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and crunchy almonds, all wrapped up in a soft lavash tortilla. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

Jordanian Chicken Wraps have been a popular dish in Jordan for many years. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and crunchy almonds is a classic flavor profile that is loved by many in the region. This dish is often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions.

Ingredients

6 chicken breasts
1 (8 oz (227 g)) package slivered almonds
4 large onions
1 cup olive oil
0.25 cup curry powder
0.13 cup coriander powder
0.13 cup ground sumac
1 tbsp ground pepper
1 tsp salt
lavash bread or 6-8 tortillas

How to prepare

Cook the chicken in water flavored with a bay leaf, carrots, and additional coriander, ground pepper, and sumac until it is done.
Strain and save the broth.
Reduce the broth to make about 5 cups and add additional chicken bouillon, if desired.
While the chicken cooks, toast the slivered almonds until they are light brown and fragrant.
You may need to shake the pan or use a spatula to flip the nuts and keep them from burning.
Allow the chicken to cool enough to handle.
Chop or pull apart the chicken into small pieces.
Saute sliced onions in olive oil until they begin to turn translucent.
Add the chicken pieces and more oil to coat, if necessary.
Add large quantities of coriander, sumac, curry powder, ground pepper, and salt.
Add about a cup or two of the broth and mix.
Keep adding spices, oil, and/or broth as needed to let the chicken become very soft and moist with a rich yellow color and thoroughly flecked with sumac (the red/brown spots).
This may take a while.
Add the toasted almonds and stir.
Cut the lavash bread in half, or use tortillas.
Place one cup of filling on the bread.
Fold it like a burrito, wrapping it fully.
Stack them in a pile on a plate.
Leave them to cool until they are comfortable to touch.
Eat with your hands.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or cucumbers for a fresh twist.
Use different nuts such as pine nuts or walnuts for a different flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the almonds until they are light brown and fragrant to bring out their nutty flavor.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Make sure to cook the chicken until it is tender and moist for the best texture.

- Allow the flavors to meld together by letting the chicken mixture simmer for a while.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Jordanian Chicken Wraps with a side of tabbouleh salad and a dollop of yogurt for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the almonds adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the chicken in broth helps to infuse it with flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a more flavorful dish.

- Use pita bread or flatbread instead of lavash tortillas.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and assemble the wraps just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Stack the wraps on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Jordanian Chicken Wraps with a side of hummus and fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Wraps contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Wraps contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Wraps contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Wraps contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Jordanian Chicken Wraps are a good source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and wheat (lavash tortillas).

Summary

Jordanian Chicken Wraps are a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Jordanian Chicken Wraps are a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. With tender chicken, fragrant spices, and crunchy almonds, these wraps are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Jordanian Chicken Wraps. It was during one of my travels to the Middle East, a region known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. I was wandering through the bustling streets of Amman, Jordan when the enticing aroma of spices and grilled meats drew me towards a small food stall tucked away in a corner.

As I approached the stall, I noticed a group of locals gathered around a skilled cook who was expertly preparing the most delicious looking chicken wraps. Intrigued, I stood back and watched as he marinated the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. The tantalizing smell wafted towards me, making my mouth water in anticipation.

After grilling the marinated chicken to perfection, the cook placed it on a warm piece of flatbread and topped it with a generous dollop of creamy hummus, a handful of fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of tangy tahini sauce. He then rolled up the wrap tightly, securing it with a toothpick, and handed it to a waiting customer who eagerly took a bite.

I couldn't resist the temptation any longer and decided to try one for myself. The first bite was a revelation - the tender, juicy chicken paired perfectly with the creamy hummus and crunchy vegetables, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. I was hooked.

I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make these Jordanian Chicken Wraps for myself. I approached the cook and asked him if he would be willing to share his recipe with me. To my surprise, he agreed, but on one condition - that I promise to pass on the recipe to others and keep the tradition alive.

I eagerly agreed and spent the next few hours watching him prepare the wraps, taking notes and asking questions along the way. He patiently explained each step of the process, from marinating the chicken to assembling the wrap, and shared valuable tips and tricks that he had learned from generations of cooks before him.

By the end of the day, I had not only mastered the recipe for Jordanian Chicken Wraps but had also gained a newfound appreciation for the art of Middle Eastern cooking. The cook bid me farewell with a warm smile and a nod of approval, knowing that his legacy would live on through me and the countless others who would enjoy his delicious creation.

Since that day, I have made Jordanian Chicken Wraps for my family and friends on numerous occasions, each time adding my own twist to the recipe while staying true to the traditional flavors that first captivated me in that small food stall in Amman. And every time I take a bite of those savory wraps, I am transported back to that bustling street corner, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of the Middle East.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and for the memories it has created for me and my loved ones. It is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to bridge cultures and generations, and to create lasting connections that transcend borders and boundaries.

So the next time you find yourself craving a taste of the exotic, why not try your hand at making Jordanian Chicken Wraps? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, perhaps you too will be inspired to share this delicious recipe with others, keeping the spirit of generosity and camaraderie alive for years to come. Bon appétit!