Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Picture tender chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, slow-cooked until it’s juicy and flavorful, just waiting to be wrapped in warm pita or served over fluffy rice. Roman-style chicken recipe The aroma wafting from your kitchen will make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if your culinary skills are limited to boiling water. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages recipe recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What makes this Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma special?
- Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
- How do I serve Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Imagine hosting a casual get-together with friends, and as they walk through your door, they are greeted by the scent of spices dancing in the air. You’ll have them drooling before they even see the food! This dish is perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends when you want delicious flavors without spending hours slaving over a hot stove. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile bursts with spices that create an unforgettable experience
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for wraps, salads, or bowls
I once made this recipe for a potluck, and my friends devoured every last bite while asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this cheeseburger bombs recipe recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness and flavor; they hold up well during cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; use more if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Ground Cumin: Essential for that earthy flavor; don’t skimp on this one!
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness; it’s my secret ingredient!
- Ground Coriander: This spice brings a lovely citrusy note to balance the dish.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adjust according to your heat preference; a little kick never hurt anyone!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Olive Oil: Use good-quality olive oil for marinating; it enhances both flavor and moisture.
- Pita Bread or Rice: Serve with warm pita or fluffy rice to soak up all those tasty juices.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil until well combined. The aroma will entice you!
Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour marinade over them. Seal tightly and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better!
Add to Slow Cooker : Transfer marinated chicken into the slow cooker. Spread evenly so each piece gets maximum flavor infusion during cooking.
Cook Low and Slow : Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender and shreds easily.
Shred and Serve : Once cooked, shred chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. Mix with remaining juices to keep it moist.
Garnish and Enjoy!: Serve shawarma on warm pita with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and drizzle with tahini sauce or yogurt dressing if desired.
Enjoy every bite of this Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma! It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together around the dinner table. zesty chicken salmoriglio.
You Must Know
- The Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is not just flavorful; it’s incredibly easy
- The spices infuse the chicken beautifully, creating a tender texture that melts in your mouth
- Serve it with fresh veggies and warm pita for an unforgettable meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, marinate the chicken overnight, then layer it in the slow cooker. Cook on low for six to eight hours to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Experiment with different spices to make it your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavors, use fresh herbs and spices when making your Chicken Shawarma
- Don’t skip the marinating step; even an hour will enhance taste
- Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked chicken
Cooking this dish always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where everyone devoured my shawarma, leaving only crumbs behind!
FAQ
What makes this Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma special?
Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
The unique blend of spices creates a rich, authentic flavor that elevates simple chicken.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use an Instant Pot or bake it in the oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes.
How do I serve Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma?
Serve it with warm pita bread, fresh veggies, and your favorite sauces like tahini or yogurt sauce.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a rich blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection. This easy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, served with warm pita or over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by mixing garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate chicken thighs in a zip-top bag with the marinade for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
- Transfer marinated chicken to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
- Shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks and mix with juices.
- Serve with warm pita and fresh veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 115mg