Description
A flavorful, healthy, and protein-packed slow cooker chicken shawarma recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. This hands-off recipe uses warm spices and tender chicken thighs for an irresistible Middle Eastern dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare the spice blend and marinade: In a small bowl, combine cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix well. In a larger bowl, add olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir in the spice blend until a thick, fragrant paste forms.
- Coat the chicken: Add chicken thighs to the marinade bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Use clean hands to rub the spices in. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes if possible, or proceed directly to the slow cooker.
- Set up the slow cooker: Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Halfway through, flip the chicken with tongs for even cooking.
- Finish and serve: Shred the chicken in the slow cooker or transfer to a bowl. Spoon cooking juices over the top to keep moist. Serve hot in pita bread, salad bowls, or over rice.
Notes
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Keep the slow cooker lid closed during cooking to maintain heat. Save and spoon the cooking juices over the chicken for extra moisture. For a charred finish, broil shredded chicken for 3-5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/6 of
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker chicken shawarma, crock pot chicken shawarma, healthy chicken shawarma, easy shawarma recipe, Middle Eastern chicken, meal prep chicken