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Why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of the Middle East in your own home. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, giving you tender chicken infused with a blend of warm spices. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as you can set it and forget it until dinner time. Plus, it’s versatile; you can serve it in pita bread, over rice, or with your favorite fresh veggies.

How to make Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

To make this savory dish, you’ll first need to create a flavorful spice mix and coat the chicken thighs. The slow cooker will do the hard work, turning the chicken into a juicy meal full of aromatic spices.

Ingredients :

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh vegetables for serving (like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
Pita bread or rice for serving

Directions :

In a bowl, mix garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Coat the chicken thighs in the spice mixture.
Place the chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks.
Serve in pita bread or over rice, and top with fresh vegetables.

How to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Serve the chicken in warm pita bread, adding fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. You can also serve it over a bed of rice with a side of tahini sauce or yogurt for extra flavor.

How to store Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add some cayenne pepper.
Pair it with a quick salad to make a complete meal.

Variation (if any)

You can switch out chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. You can also try this recipe with beef or lamb, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just add an hour to the cooking time.

Can I cook this on the stove?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a pot over medium heat. It will take about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

What sides go well with Chicken Shawarma?
Popular sides include rice, tabbouleh, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. Enjoy with a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.