Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Sliders

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously easy weeknight meal that brings the flavors of the Middle East right to your dinner table, look no further than these Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Sliders. Imagine tender, spiced chicken that melts in your mouth, served on soft slider buns and topped with a creamy sauce and fresh herbs. This recipe is not just simple to prepare; it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings and family dinners alike.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These sliders deserve a prime place in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, the slow cooking method allows the spices to infuse the chicken thoroughly, resulting in an incredibly flavorful dish. Second, the versatility of the sliders means you can customize them with your favorite toppings, from crunchy cucumbers to creamy sauces. Finally, they’re a fantastic option for meal prepping, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Ingredient Checklist

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 12 slider buns
• 1 cucumber, sliced thinly
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon tahini
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking the chicken low and slow.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the cucumber and parsley.
• Mixing Bowls: To prepare the sauces.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.

Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Sliders: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, ground cumin, curry powder, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Transfer the seasoned chicken to the slow cooker. Pour in the coconut cream, tahini, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce for extra flavor.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, ground cumin, and black pepper. This sauce will add a creamy, tangy element to your sliders.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

To assemble your sliders, take a slider bun and layer it with a generous portion of the shredded chicken. Top with sliced cucumbers, a drizzle of the prepared sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Sliders warm, and watch them disappear! These sliders are perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy family dinner.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Chicken Breasts: Substitute with thighs for a more flavorful option.
• Coconut Cream: Use Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce if you prefer.
• Slider Buns: Whole wheat or gluten-free buns can be used for healthier options.
• Spices: Fresh herbs can replace dried spices for added freshness.

Troubles You Can Avoid

• Overcooking: Keep an eye on the time to avoid dry chicken.
• Too Much Liquid: If you find the sauce is too runny, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to let some moisture evaporate.
• Flavorless Chicken: Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with spices before cooking.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

You can store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze the chicken, portion it into freezer bags and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and remain juicy during cooking, making them a great alternative.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mildly spiced due to the use of curry powder and cumin. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

What can I serve with the sliders?

These sliders pair perfectly with sides like roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or even sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before assembling your sliders.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
• Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce
• Chickpea and Spinach Stew
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

The Takeaway

These Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma Sliders are a delightful fusion of flavors that can turn a simple weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and versatility. Plus, the ability to customize each slider means everyone can enjoy them just the way they like. So gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and get ready to savor a taste of the Middle East right at home!