Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma: Tender Flavor in Every Bite

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is a flavorful, easy-to-prepare dish that transforms tender chicken with warm spices, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for great flavor.

For the Spice Blend

4 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
2 tsp Ground Cumin Can substitute with ground coriander.
2 tsp Ground Coriander Omit if not available.
2 tsp Smoked Paprika Replace with regular paprika for less smokiness.
1 tsp Ground Turmeric No direct substitutes available.
1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Omitting will alter the flavor profile.
1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust to taste for a milder dish.
1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing overall flavor.
1/2 tsp Black Pepper Essential for enhancing overall flavor.

For the Base

1 large Onion Substitute with shallots or leeks if needed.
2 tbsp Lemon Juice Substitute with vinegar for acidity.

For Serving

1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Replace with cilantro for a different flavor profile.
4 pieces Pita Bread or Rice Use gluten-free wraps or grain bowls as alternatives.
1 cup Yogurt or Tahini Sauce Use your favorite condiment for serving.

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Method

Step-By-Step Instructions

Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, and spices including ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add fresh lemon juice for a zesty boost.
Layer Ingredients: Slice one large onion and arrange the pieces at the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the chicken thighs on top of the onions and pour the marinade over the chicken.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 3 hours.
Shred Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the fragrant juices.
Serve: Warm up pita bread or prepare rice and fill it with shredded chicken and fresh vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For deeper flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight and resist the temptation to lift the lid while cooking.

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