Chicken Shawarma
The most popular street food in the Arab world: spiced chicken slices roasted on the spit, rich in lean protein. Its glycemic index depends entirely on the type and size of the bread it is wrapped in (moderate, 45).
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
The smartest order for people with diabetes or on a diet is a shawarma plate: eat the spiced chicken with a fork, with natural garlic sauce, pickles and vegetables, without the large flatbread.
Best preparation methods
If you want it as a sandwich, choose a small wholegrain wrap, and use a garlic sauce made with Greek yoghurt and olive oil instead of processed mayonnaise.
Important Nutritional Note
For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, it is always recommended to consider the total glycemic load (GL) of the meal rather than relying on the glycemic index alone.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (200 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 265 kcal | 530 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g | 44 g |
| Carbohydrate | 18 g | 36 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 16 g | 32 g |
| Fat | 12 g | 24 g |
| Dietary fibre | 2 g | 4 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Arabic dishes with a glycemic index (24), it ranks 13 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicken Shawarma good for weight loss?
It can be a useful part of a weight-loss plan because it provides 8.3 g of protein per 100 kcal, and protein supports fullness. A 200 g portion gives 530 kcal.
How does Chicken Shawarma affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 45 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 200 g portion has a glycemic load of 14.4 (Medium), so it is best combined with protein or fibre-rich vegetables.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Chicken Shawarma?
A typical 200 g portion of Chicken Shawarma provides about 530 kcal, 44 g protein, 36 g carbohydrate, 24 g fat and 4 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.