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Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Recipe

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  • Author: Lidia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Tender, slow-cooked chicken shawarma infused with warm Middle Eastern spices, garlic, and lemon for bold, aromatic flavor. Perfect for wraps, bowls, salads, and easy meal prep.


Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, allspice, cayenne, and lemon juice.
  3. Pour the spice mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
  5. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
  6. For crispy edges, spread the shredded chicken on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until lightly crisped.
  7. Serve warm in pita bread, wraps, rice bowls, or salads with desired toppings.

Notes

  • Chicken breasts can be substituted for a leaner option, though they may be slightly less juicy.
  • Add 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt to the marinade for deeper flavor.
  • Increase smoked paprika for a smokier taste.
  • Add extra cayenne or red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Sliced onions can be added to the slow cooker for additional sweetness and depth.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 155 mg