Go Back
+ servings
Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma: Easy Flavor Adventure at Home

Experience the magic of Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma with irresistible spices and effortless preparation—perfect for any night.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Chicken Thighs Tender and juicy when slow-cooked; can swap for chicken breasts for a leaner dish.
  • 1 large Onion Adds sweetness and a deep flavor; yellow onion preferred.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Provides aromatic richness; use fresh garlic.
For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Helps blend spices; avocado oil is a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Always choose fresh over bottled.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin Delivers earthy warmth.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Coriander Adds a citrus note.
  • 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika Brings a rich smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Optional for vibrant color.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Enhances warm spice profile.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional for heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for amplifying flavors.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Adds creamy texture; dairy-free yogurt can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley For garnishing.
  • 4 pieces Warm Pita or Rice Delicious accompaniments.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Method
 

Marinade Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, black pepper, and salt until well-combined.
Layer Ingredients
  1. Slice the onion and spread it evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the chicken thighs on top, pour the prepared marinade over, and gently toss until the chicken is coated.
Cooking
  1. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and shreds easily.
Shred Chicken
  1. Remove the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken. Mix the shredded chicken with the juices and onions in the pot.
Serving
  1. Serve by piling the shredded shawarma onto warm pita or rice, topped with Greek yogurt and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma can be served in various ways—over rice, in pita, or as a salad topping.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!