This Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is a tasty and easy dish full of spices! Just throw chicken thighs in the slow cooker with garlic, cumin, and paprika, and let the magic happen.
I love serving it in warm pita bread with fresh veggies. It’s like a party for my taste buds, and the slow cooker does all the hard work while I relax!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this dish due to their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breast works as well but might be a bit drier after cooking.
Spices: The mix of spices is crucial for authentic shawarma flavor. If you don’t have cumin or coriander, you might try a curry powder as a substitute. Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
Onion: Sliced onions add sweetness and depth. If you want a milder flavor, switch to sweet onions or even leeks.
Pita bread/flatbreads: These are perfect for serving. You can also use tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Toppings: While cucumbers and tomatoes are classic, feel free to add your favorite veggies or omit them entirely. Don’t forget the tahini or yogurt to bring everything together!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Shredded and Juicy?
The shredding step enhances the shawarma experience by mixing the chicken with the flavorful cooking juices. Once the cooking time is up, gently use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This way, the meat absorbs those delicious juices!
- Use two forks to pull apart the chicken thighs until they are shredded to your liking.
- Mix the shredded chicken with the onions and juices, ensuring everything is coated well.
- For added moisture, drizzle a bit more lemon juice or yogurt over the chicken before serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 teaspoons ground cumin
- 4 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- Pita bread or flatbreads, for serving
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped cucumbers
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Tahini sauce or yogurt for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes for preparation and then either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker. Just pop it in and let it cook until the chicken is tender and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. Combine the olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix everything together well to create a lovely spice rub.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and rub the spice mixture all over them. Make sure they are thoroughly coated so every bite is packed with flavor. It’s okay to get your hands a little messy here; it’s all part of the fun!
3. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Next, place the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will add flavor and help keep the chicken moist. Then, arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onions.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, go for the high setting for 3-4 hours. If you have time, cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the chicken to become even more tender and tasty!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done cooking, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with all the juices and onions to ensure every piece is deliciously coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to eat! Serve the shredded chicken in warm pita or flatbreads. Top with any of your favorite toppings like cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or yogurt for an extra special touch.
7. Dig In!
Enjoy your flavorful slow cooker chicken shawarma! It’s a delicious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Just make sure to shred the chicken off the bone before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more cayenne pepper or even some chopped fresh chili peppers to the spice rub for extra heat. Alternatively, you can serve it with a spicier tahini sauce or hot sauce on the side.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Shawarma?
This dish is perfect with pita bread or flatbreads! Pair it with a refreshing salad, such as tabbouleh or a simple cucumber-tomato salad. You can also serve it with rice or couscous for a hearty meal.
