Chicken rolls are perhaps the easiest snack cum meal one can have. In different cultures and countries, they are referred to with different names. They also come in a plethora of different tastes. flavors and recipe styles.
In Turkey, the durum is hugely popular. and in Pakistan the roll paratha is equally a hit. Gyros in Greece, wraps in most other countries around the world, shawarmas in Middle Eastern countries, chicken rolls are incredible.
Lately, I have been missing the traditional roll parathas that can be found on every street corner in Pakistan. Although there are multiple recipes for these chicken rolls, one of my favorites is the garlic mayo chicken roll paratha. Over the five years that I spent away from Pakistan, I learned to cook many different street foods.
These garlic mayo chicken rolls are one of the easiest and most delectable recipes I picked up over the years. Plus. they taste so incredibly authentic. I have had this recipe saved for a couple of years now and I always refer to it every time the cravings hit.
ALSO TRY THESE MEXICAN CHICKEN ENCHILADAS!
What Makes These Garlic Mayo Chicken Rolls Irresistible
What makes these rolls so irresistible? Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love them:
- Juicy, Flavorful Chicken: Marinated and cooked to perfection, the chicken is tender and packed with flavor from the combination of garlic, cumin, and lemon.
- Creamy Garlic Mayo: The garlic mayo sauce is the star of this dish—rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a touch of tang.
- Versatility: You can customize the roll with your favorite veggies, like onions, lettuce, or even cucumbers. You can also swap the wraps for homemade parathas or tortillas for a unique twist.
- Quick & Easy: The best part? It’s quick and easy to make. Whether you’re making homemade parathas or opting for store-bought tortillas, the process is hassle-free and satisfying.
You can choose to make your own flatbreads or parathas for this recipe. Of course, nothing beats homemade parathas. But, you can also use store bought tortillas lightly toasted with a little bit of butter or oil to get a similar result. I tend to go for this shortcut when I am short on time. Otherwise homemade parathas is the way to go.
I also love adding fresh onions and green chilies. Amidst the flavorful juicy chicken strips and the cream garlic mayo sauce, they add a delicious fresh taste.
How to Make Your Own Parathas (or Use Tortillas)
While I highly recommend making your own parathas for the best texture and flavor, if you’re in a pinch, store-bought tortillas work just as well. Here’s a quick guide on making your own parathas:
- Mix: Combine flour, water, salt, and oil to form a dough.
- Knead: Let the dough rest for 15-30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Cook: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook each paratha, brushing with oil as you go, until golden brown.
Of course, this is just one way to make your flatbreads. If you’re short on time, a quick toast of store-bought tortillas with a touch of butter will still give you that crispy and soft texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken filling.
Wraps vs. Shawarmas vs. Chicken Rolls
If you’re wondering how chicken rolls differ from other global wraps, shawarmas, or gyros, here’s a quick breakdown. While all these dishes are variations of filling wrapped in flatbreads, the difference lies in the preparation and flavors.
- Wraps: The most general term for this type of meal, wraps can contain any filling wrapped in a soft tortilla or flatbread.
- Shawarma: A Middle Eastern classic, shawarmas are made with spiced meat that’s slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served with vegetables and sauces in flatbreads.
- Gyros: Similar to shawarma, but typically made with pork or chicken and served with a tangy yogurt sauce.
- Chicken Rolls: Originating in Pakistan and popular throughout South Asia, these rolls are often made with a spiced chicken filling and a creamy, rich sauce (like garlic mayo) and rolled in flatbreads.
Extra Tips to Elevate Your Chicken Rolls
- Add Spice: For a little extra kick, try adding chili flakes to the marinade or in the garlic mayo sauce.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or mint would add a fresh and zesty contrast to the rich mayo sauce.
- Try Grilled Chicken: For a smoky, grilled version, cook the chicken strips on a grill pan or outdoor grill for added flavor.
This recipe is close to my heart. Growing up in Pakistan, chicken rolls were a common snack or meal enjoyed with family and friends. The rich, spicy filling combined with the creamy garlic mayo and fresh vegetables made every bite a flavor explosion.
After living in Turkey and experiencing their version of wraps and durum, I began experimenting with different variations of this recipe. And let me tell you, every version brings back memories of street food stalls, laughter, and sharing good food with loved ones.
But the beauty of this garlic mayo chicken roll is that you can easily recreate this beloved dish at home, no matter where you are. It’s a perfect comfort food for when you’re craving something familiar, or if you simply want to explore the flavors of South Asia and the Middle East in your kitchen.