Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Slow cooker chicken shawarma is a delightful and delicious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen. Imagine the aroma of seasoned chicken wafting through your home as it cooks slowly, transforming into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t have the time to dedicate hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how to make it effortlessly in your slow cooker. You’ll want this dish to become a staple in your meal rotation!

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why you should choose slow cooker chicken shawarma over other chicken recipes. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that whisks you away to a bustling market filled with exotic spices and fresh ingredients. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken thighs absorb all the flavors from the spices, resulting in juicy, shredded pieces of chicken that are simply irresistible.

What really sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can easily customize the toppings to fit your taste preferences, making it a hit for everyone—from the spice lover to those who prefer milder flavors. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Chicken thighs are typically more affordable than breast meat, allowing you to serve a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prep for the week, this shawarma fits the bill.

“This slow cooker chicken shawarma is a family favorite! The spices are amazing, and it’s so easy to prepare. I love serving it with fresh toppings!” — A happy home cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making slow cooker chicken shawarma is a breeze! You’ll enjoy simple and straightforward steps that lead to a mouthwatering dish. Prepare for an easy cooking experience that yields tender, flavorful chicken perfect for serving in pita or atop a salad. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Combine the flavorful spices and ingredients.
2. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the mixture.
3. Set your slow cooker to low or high and forget about it for a few hours.
4. Shred the chicken once it’s done and assemble your meal with fresh toppings.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this delicious slow cooker chicken shawarma, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Pita bread or flatbread for serving
• Toppings: sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, tahini sauce, fresh parsley

Note: Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs if you prefer a leaner option, but the cooking time may vary slightly due to the different fat content.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined.

2. Place the chicken thighs in your slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the spice mixture.

3. Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork.

4. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker for easy mixing.

5. Serve the shredded chicken in warm pita bread, topped with your choice of fresh veggies and tahini sauce.

Best Way to Serve

Serving your slow cooker chicken shawarma is where the fun really begins! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal:

• Use warm pita bread or flatbreads to make wraps filled with shredded chicken and an array of toppings.
• Pair with a fresh salad made from tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for a light meal.
• Include a side of tzatziki or hummus for dipping.
• Get adventurous with toppings like pickled onions or crumbled feta for an added flavor boost.

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers is easy and smart! Here’s how to keep your slow cooker chicken shawarma fresh:

• Refrigerating: Allow the chicken to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you have more leftovers, you can freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months, making it convenient for meal prep.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave or warm it on the stove until heated through. Ensure that it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F to enjoy safely.

Pro Chef Tips

To make this dish even better, consider these handy tips:

• Marinating: For stronger flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• Using a Meat Thermometer: Ensure that your chicken is perfectly cooked by checking with a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F.
• Customization: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices! Add a pinch of cardamom or sumac for a unique twist.

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations you can try:

• Spicy Shawarma: Increase the cayenne or add sriracha for heat lovers.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like cauliflower or chickpeas using the same spice mixture.
• Wrap it Up Differently: Use a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this chicken shawarma?

The slow cooking time is about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, but it requires minimal active time.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that the chicken will be less juicy and may require adjustments to the cooking time to avoid drying out.

How can I store leftover shawarma safely?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for later use. Always reheat until heated thoroughly.

This slow cooker chicken shawarma is definitely worth the hype! It’s flavorful, versatile, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

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• Total Time: 255 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A delightful slow cooker chicken shawarma recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Pita bread or flatbread for serving
• Toppings: sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, tahini sauce, fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in your slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the spice mixture.
3. Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork.
4. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker for easy mixing.
5. Serve the shredded chicken in warm pita bread, topped with your choice of fresh veggies and tahini sauce.

Notes

For stronger flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. Ensure that the chicken reaches a safe temperature of 165°F when reheating.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 240 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: shawarma, chicken, slow cooker, Middle Eastern, easy dinner, meal prep