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slow-cooker-chicken-shawarma-bowl-with-parsley

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Tender, juicy chicken thighs slow cooked in a bold Middle Eastern spice blend. Perfect for wraps, bowls, and easy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Middle Eastern
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper optional, adjust to taste
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon juiced fresh
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • pita bread or cooked rice for serving
  • yogurt sauce or tahini for serving

Equipment

  • Slow cooker or crockpot (5 to 6 quart)
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Two forks for shredding
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Stir until a thick, fragrant marinade forms.
  2. Lay the sliced onion in an even layer across the bottom of your slow cooker to prevent sticking and build a flavorful base.
  3. Place the chicken thighs on top of the onion bed and pour the marinade over everything. Coat each piece thoroughly.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
  5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and shred using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and stir into the juices.
  6. Serve warm in pita bread or over rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and drizzle with yogurt sauce or tahini.

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes or overnight before cooking. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and are great served cold over salads. Freezer-friendly for up to 2 months.