Directions
- Prepare the pita dough. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, and oil. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30–45 minutes until it doubles in size. Roll into small rounds and cook on a hot skillet until puffed and lightly browned. Set aside.
- Prepare the chicken marinade. In a small bowl, combine cumin, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, cayenne, garlic, lemon juice, and yogurt to form a thick, aromatic sauce.
- Coat the chicken. Add chicken pieces and sliced onion to a slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Slow cook the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and infused with spices.
- Shred and broil. Preheat your oven to broil. Transfer chicken and onions to a sheet pan, leaving the cooking juices in the slow cooker. Shred the chicken with forks and spread into an even layer. Broil for 3–5 minutes until the edges of the chicken begin to crisp and brown slightly. This step adds a delicious restaurant-quality texture.
- Prepare toppings and sauce. Mix the dill yogurt sauce by combining plain yogurt, dried dill, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Prepare vegetables and any additional toppings.
- Assemble the shawarma. Lay warm pita bread flat, then layer with shredded chicken, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olives. Drizzle generously with tzatziki or dill-yogurt sauce. Fold or roll as desired.
- Serve immediately. Enjoy warm, with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20–30 minutes (plus dough rising and vegetable prep)
- Cook Time: 3–8 hours (slow cooker)
- Broil Time: 3–5 minutes
- Total Time: 4–8 hours
- Servings: 6–8
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Variation: Add ½ tsp smoked paprika or chili powder to the marinade for a deeper heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Use marinated tofu or seitan in place of chicken.
- Bread Swap: Use store-bought naan, flatbreads, or lavash if you don’t want to make pita.
- Quick Version: Cook chicken on a skillet or grill instead of slow-cooking; reduce cook time to 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
The most important part is just ahead — click NEXT »»
