Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy meal that practically cooks itself, you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma recipe has become one of my go-to favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t have time to slave over the stove. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

Not only does this dish deliver on taste, but it also brings everyone together around the table. The tender, spice-infused chicken pairs beautifully with warm pitas and a refreshing yogurt sauce—perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, this recipe is a breeze. Simply marinate the chicken and let the slow cooker do the rest!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love piling their pitas high with savory chicken and fresh veggies. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken overnight for even better flavor, making dinner planning simple.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices creates an irresistible aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store.

For the Marinade

• 2 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless)
• 1 onion (sliced)
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Yogurt Sauce

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons cucumber (grated)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For Serving

• Pitas
• (lettuce, red onion, cucumbers, tomatoes)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it to your liking.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. You could also make this with chickpeas for a tasty vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini into the slow cooker for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for an extra kick!
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different herbs or spices in your yogurt sauce. Fresh dill or mint would add a lovely freshness!

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together all your marinade ingredients. This includes plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and red pepper flakes. Mixing these flavors not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with mouthwatering spices!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs to a ziplock bag along with the marinade. Seal it tightly and give everything a good mix before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial as it allows those flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Step 3: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Slice your onion and place it at the bottom of your slow cooker. The onions will caramelize beautifully as they cook and create a lovely base for your chicken.

Step 4: Cook Your Chicken

Place your marinated chicken on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 4-6 hours until it’s tender and shreddable. Cooking low and slow ensures that all those wonderful flavors meld together perfectly!

Step 5: Shred and Return Chicken

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Put it back into the slow cooker to soak up more juices; this keeps every bite flavorful!

Step 6: Make Your Yogurt Sauce

While your chicken is cooking away, whip up that cooling yogurt sauce! Combine plain Greek yogurt with minced garlic, grated cucumber, cumin, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve—this sauce adds that refreshing touch!

Step 7: Assemble Your Pitas

Now comes the fun part! Grab some warm pitas and fill them generously with shredded chicken, yogurt sauce, red onion slices, lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Each bite is sure to be deliciously satisfying!

And there you have it—a comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma recipe that’s easy enough for any night of the week! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Cooking should be a fun and joyful experience, and these tips will help you make your Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma even more delicious!

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight. This allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a deeper, richer taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice can significantly enhance the flavor of your marinade and yogurt sauce. They bring brightness and complexity that dried or bottled alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t Skip the Onion Layer: Placing sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist as it cooks. The onions absorb some of the juices while caramelizing beautifully.

• Shred for Texture: After cooking, don’t just slice the chicken—shred it! Shredded chicken absorbs more sauce and provides a delightful texture that works perfectly in pitas.

• Customize Your Pita Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Adding a variety of fresh veggies or even pickled elements can elevate your shawarma experience and add crunch.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is where the fun begins! With its vibrant flavors and fresh toppings, you’ll have a beautiful dish that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro can add a burst of color and freshness to your shawarma, making each bite feel lively.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances out the spices in the chicken.
• Pickled Red Onions: These tangy garnishes are not only visually appealing but also add an exciting zing that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice offers a bright contrast to the savory shawarma.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted until caramelized pairs perfectly with the spice of the chicken.
• Hummus: Creamy hummus serves as a fantastic dip for your pitas or as an additional spread. Its richness complements the shawarma beautifully.
• Couscous or Quinoa: These grains are light and fluffy bases for any leftovers you might have. Toss them with herbs and lemon for an added zing!

Enjoy creating this delightful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Your guests will be asking for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, flavorful meals throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your shawarma for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken shawarma in an airtight container.
• Keep the yogurt sauce separate to maintain its freshness.
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and contents before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat until warmed through.
• You can also reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs in this Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving when cooked for longer periods.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the slow cooker. You can also adjust the spices based on your taste preferences!

What can I serve with my Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma?

This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or even as a topping for quinoa bowls. Don’t forget your favorite fresh veggies and sauces!

How long will leftovers from the Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as described above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma recipe! It’s special not just for its mouthwatering flavors but also for the ease with which it comes together. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with others!