Is there anything better than the mouthwatering aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen? When I first crafted these Chicken Shawarma Sliders, I was on a quest for something flavorful yet quick—a perfect antidote to the usual takeout fatigue. The result? Tender chicken thighs marinated in a symphony of spices and layered between soft slider buns, each bite bursting with zest and freshness.
These sliders are not just satisfying; they’re versatile too! Ideal for casual lunches, game day gatherings, or even a unique appetizer at your next potluck. And let’s not forget the health factor: instead of traditional mayo, I’ve swapped in a creamy, flavor-packed hummus spread that elevates the dish while keeping it lighter and brighter.
Get ready to transform your mealtime routine and impress your friends with these easy, yet gourmet sliders. You’ll find it hard to believe something this delicious can come together so effortlessly!
Why will you love Chicken Shawarma Sliders?
Bursting with Flavor: Each slider is packed with a rich blend of spices, providing a mouthwatering taste that will keep you coming back for more.
Healthier Option: Swapping out mayo for creamy hummus not only lightens the dish but also adds a fresh twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time and easy instructions, these sliders are a perfect solution for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family lunch, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser that fits any occasion.
Unforgettable Textures: Enjoy the juicy, tender chicken combined with the crunch of fresh veggies and the creaminess of hummus, creating a delightful experience in every bite.
Make Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, so all you need to do is bake and assemble when you’re ready to serve.
Chicken Shawarma Sliders Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor; substitute with ground coriander for a milder taste.
- Ground Turmeric – Provides color and a hint of bitterness; no direct substitute, but curry powder adds a unique twist.
- Ground Coriander – Offers a light, citrusy note; can be substituted with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
- Ground Garlic Powder – Enhances savoriness; use fresh minced garlic for a robust aroma.
- Ground Paprika – Contributes mild sweetness and vibrant color; smoked paprika can bring a deeper flavor.
- Ground Cloves – Introduces sweetness and warmth; can skip if not available or use a pinch of allspice.
- Ground Cayenne – Adds heat; reduce or omit for a milder flavor.
For the Sliders
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Main protein; these stay juicy and absorb the marinade well. Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out.
- Red Onion – Provides a crunchy, sweet contrast; substitute with pickled onions for an extra kick.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors and tenderizes chicken; lime juice can be used if preferred.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; can substitute with vegetable or canola oil.
- Slider Buns – The perfect vessel for everything; use whole grain or gluten-free buns as alternatives.
- Sabra Spreads (Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper) – Adds creaminess and a flavor boost; hummus works well in its place.
- Butter Lettuce – Provides freshness and crunch; any leafy greens can serve as a substitute.
Get ready to whip up these delightful Chicken Shawarma Sliders that showcase vibrant flavors and textures, making your next meal both satisfying and memorable!
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Sliders
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Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, blend together ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, cloves, and cayenne. This aromatic mixture will form the flavorful base for your chicken.
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Marinate Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with the spice mixture. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss in half of the red onion, and add olive oil. Toss well and let it marinate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the chicken to juicy perfection.
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Bake Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through and juicy.
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Crisp Chicken: Switch your oven to broil on low for an additional 3-5 minutes. This helps achieve a crispy, caramelized edge on the chicken.
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Assemble Sliders: Spread creamy Sabra on the slider buns. Layer in the crispy chicken, remaining red onion, and fresh butter lettuce. Top it off with the other half of the bun and serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a delicious, tangy twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma Sliders?
Elevate your slider experience with delectable sides and accompaniments that enhance every bite and bring your meal to life.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture provide a delightful contrast to the spicy, savory flavors of the sliders. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
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Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad, filled with fresh veggies and a light dressing, complements the richness of the chicken. It’s a colorful and nutritious side that brightens up your plate.
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Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies, seasoned with garlic and herbs, create a fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with the sliders. Their caramelized edges bring a lovely depth of flavor.
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Tabbouleh: A zesty, herb-filled Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur, parsley, and mint. Its bright flavors and refreshing crunch are the perfect palate cleanser alongside the sliders.
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Hummus Platter: Serve a variety of hummus flavors alongside pita chips and sliced veggies. This well-rounded appetizer echoes the familiar hummus spread in the sliders while adding more texture and taste.
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Mint Lemonade: A cool, refreshing drink spiked with mint and lemon, it’s a delightful way to balance the heat from the sliders and keep your guests refreshed.
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Baklava Bites: For a sweet finish, these rich and nutty pastries offer a delightful contrast to the savory sliders. Their sweetness rounds out the meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor—just be sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container. The spicy marinade helps keep the chicken moist and tender, ensuring they’ll be just as delicious later. Additionally, you can slice the red onion and prepare your slider buns a day ahead. When it’s time to serve, simply bake the marinated chicken as instructed and assemble the sliders with hummus and lettuce for the freshest taste. With these prep tips, you’ll have an impressive, flavorful meal ready in no time!
Tips for the Best Chicken Shawarma Sliders
- Marination Time Matters: Ensure the chicken is marinated for at least 3 hours to absorb all the flavors, enhancing the taste of your Chicken Shawarma Sliders.
- Broiling Caution: Watch the chicken closely while broiling to avoid burning. The goal is to achieve crispiness without charring.
- Single Layer Baking: Lay the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet for even cooking and maximum juiciness.
- Fresh Ingredients Rule: Use fresh lemon juice and quality spices for the best flavor. Avoid bottled or pre-ground spices wherever possible.
- Customizable Spreads: Feel free to experiment with different hummus flavors to customize your Chicken Shawarma Sliders for a unique taste experience.
- Don’t Rush Assembly: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after broiling before assembling the sliders to retain moisture and flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Shawarma Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Shawarma Sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their delicious flavors while keeping them fresh for your next meal.
Freezer: If you want to save some sliders for later, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, remove from the freezer and thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Assembling Fresh: For the best taste experience, consider freezing the marinated chicken separately, then bake fresh sliders whenever you’re ready to enjoy these flavorful Chicken Shawarma Sliders.
Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Shawarma Sliders
Explore the delightful possibilities to customize your sliders and make them your own!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for grilled vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, for a colorful and satisfying twist.
- Different Hummus Flavors: Use roasted red pepper, garlic, or even spicy harissa hummus for an exciting flavor boost that elevates every bite.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add crumbled feta cheese or slices of creamy goat cheese to enrich the sliders with a delightful tang.
- Extra Crunch: Add pickled cucumbers or jalapeños for an added crunch and zing, enhancing the overall textures and flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the meal is accessible to everyone by opting for gluten-free slider buns, so everyone can join the fun!
- Cilantro Lime Fusion: Replace lemon juice with lime juice and add fresh cilantro for a vibrant, zesty flavor that refreshes the classic recipe.
- Heat Adjustments: Tailor the spice level to your preference by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
- Savory Additions: Layer in avocado slices for a rich creaminess or some sliced olives for a briny touch that complements the spices beautifully.
Chicken Shawarma Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Shawarma sliders?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicy result, as they marinate beautifully and maintain moisture during cooking. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out easily.
How do I store leftover Chicken Shawarma Sliders?
Leftover Chicken Shawarma Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep the components separate (like the buns and chicken) if you prefer them fresher when reheating.
Can I freeze Chicken Shawarma Sliders?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled sliders. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, consider freezing just the marinated chicken and assembling fresh sliders when you’re ready to enjoy.
What are some common issues when making Shawarma sliders?
One common trouble is overcooking the chicken—this can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on your chicken while it’s baking and broiling. Also, if the spices are too overpowering, try reducing the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor.
Can I make these sliders vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap out the chicken for grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, marinated in the same spices for a flavorful vegetarian option. You can also use hummus as the spread and select vegan slider buns to keep them completely plant-based.
Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe?
Be mindful of potential allergies to common ingredients such as sesame in hummus or gluten in slider buns. You can substitute with gluten-free buns and an allergy-friendly spread, like a sunflower seed-based hummus, to accommodate dietary needs.
Flavorful Chicken Shawarma Sliders with Creamy Hummus Boost
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor; substitute with ground coriander for a milder taste.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Provides color and a hint of bitterness; no direct substitute, but curry powder adds a unique twist.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Offers a light, citrusy note; can be substituted with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Garlic Powder Enhances savoriness; use fresh minced garlic for a robust aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Paprika Contributes mild sweetness and vibrant color; smoked paprika can bring a deeper flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves Introduces sweetness and warmth; can skip if not available or use a pinch of allspice.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cayenne Adds heat; reduce or omit for a milder flavor.
For the Sliders
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Main protein; these stay juicy and absorb the marinade well.
- 1 small Red Onion Provides a crunchy, sweet contrast; substitute with pickled onions for an extra kick.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens flavors and tenderizes chicken; lime juice can be used if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and richness; can substitute with vegetable or canola oil.
- 8 pieces Slider Buns The perfect vessel for everything; use whole grain or gluten-free buns as alternatives.
- 1 container Sabra Spreads (Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper) Adds creaminess and a flavor boost; hummus works well in its place.
- 1 cup Butter Lettuce Provides freshness and crunch; any leafy greens can serve as a substitute.
Instructions
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Sliders
- In a mixing bowl, blend together ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, cloves, and cayenne.
- Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with the spice mixture. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss in half of the red onion, and add olive oil.
- Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the chicken.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.
- Switch your oven to broil on low for an additional 3-5 minutes to achieve a crispy, caramelized edge.
- Spread creamy Sabra on the slider buns, layer in the crispy chicken, remaining red onion, and fresh butter lettuce.