The moment that first waft of spices hits my kitchen, I’m swept away to bustling streets filled with the vibrant sounds and colors of the Middle East. That’s exactly what inspired these Chicken Shawarma Sliders, a delightful blend of bold flavors wrapped in soft, pillowy slider buns. Perfect for those evenings when I crave something homemade yet effortless, these mini sandwiches are far from your average appetizer. With juicy chicken thighs marinated in a symphony of spices and a creamy layer of Sabra hummus instead of mayonnaise, they offer a wholesome twist that not only tempts your taste buds but also keeps things light and guilt-free. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself on a quiet night in, these sliders promise to be the crowd-pleaser that elevates your dining experience without stealing too much of your precious time. Let’s dive into this recipe that is just as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Shawarma Sliders
Flavor Explosion: With a bold blend of spices, every bite bursts with rich taste that will impress your family and guests.
Quick & Easy: These sliders come together with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Lightened Up: Using creamy Sabra hummus instead of mayonnaise gives you that delicious creaminess with fewer calories and guilt.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfectly sized for sharing, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit at any event.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or let your creativity shine by trying different hummus flavors.
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavor-packed wonders!
Chicken Shawarma Sliders Ingredients
• Get ready for a tasty delight!
For the Spice Mix
- Ground Cumin – Essential spice that adds warm and earthy notes; for a twist, substitute with ground coriander.
- Ground Turmeric – Provides vibrant color and a hint of bitterness, plus it has anti-inflammatory properties!
- Ground Coriander – Contributes citrusy spice flavor; you can use cumin for a similar punch.
- Ground Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; substitute with fresh minced garlic for a stronger kick if preferred.
- Ground Paprika – Offers mild sweetness with a bit of heat; smoked paprika will bring an exciting smoky flavor.
- Cloves – Intense spice bringing warmth; use sparingly as they can overpower the dish.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds heat to the sliders; adjust to your taste or skip it if you prefer milder flavors.
For the Chicken Filling
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein that stays moist and flavorful; swap for chicken breasts if you like (just adjust cooking time).
- Red Onion – Provides a sharp bite and crunch; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and acidity; freshly squeezed juice is the best!
- Olive Oil – Helps to marinate and tenderize the meat; avocado oil is a great alternative for a different flavor.
For Assembly
- Slider Buns – The perfect base to hold all the delicious filling; choose whole wheat buns for a healthier option.
- Sabra Spreads (Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper) – A healthier substitute for mayonnaise, bringing creaminess to the mix; feel free to try any flavored hummus.
- Butter Lettuce – Offers a fresh and crunchy texture; any leafy green like romaine can work in its place.
With these delicious Chicken Shawarma Sliders ingredients, you’re on your way to a tasty adventure!
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Sliders
Prepare Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, cloves, and cayenne. This spice blend creates a warm and fragrant embrace for your chicken.
Marinate Chicken: Pat the spice mixture onto the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well-coated. In a separate bowl, combine lemon juice, half of the sliced red onion, and olive oil; toss to coat the chicken. Cover and let marinate for at least 3 hours or, for maximum flavor, overnight.
Cook Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes. Then, broil the chicken on low for an additional 3-5 minutes until the edges are crispy and inviting.
Assemble Sliders: Spread a generous layer of Sabra hummus on both halves of the slider buns. Layer with the savory chicken, the remaining onion slices, and then add butter lettuce. Place the top buns on and serve these delightful sliders immediately to enjoy their freshness.
Optional: Serve with a side of spicy fries for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Shawarma Sliders
Marination Magic: Allow chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor. The spices will penetrate deeper, making every bite irresistible.
Even Cooking: Ensure chicken thighs are of similar size for uniform cooking. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning. The crispy edges are delicious but can quickly go from golden to charred!
Test for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.
Custom Flavor Profiles: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different Sabra hummus flavors. This can bring unique twists to your Chicken Shawarma Sliders that everyone will love!
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 flavor and moisture, so you’re still enjoying them a little while later.
Freezer: If you have more sliders than you can eat, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll last up to 3 months this way!
Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, keeping the sliders moist and delicious.
Tip: For best results, store chicken separately from the buns until you’re ready to eat to maintain their freshness.
Chicken Shawarma Sliders Variations
Feel free to personalize these sliders with exciting twists that tickle your taste buds!
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or use chickpea patties for a delectable meatless option.
- Extra Crunch: Add pickled red onions or crunchy cucumbers for a refreshing bite that elevates your sliders. These bright additions complement the spices beautifully!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for those who crave heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance, and let the flavor fireworks begin!
- Flavorful Spreads: Experiment with different Sabra Hummus flavors such as roasted red pepper or garlic to add a unique twist to each slider. Each hummus brings a different layer of flavor that’s sure to please.
- Sweet & Savory: Consider adding thin slices of apple or pear for a sweet contrast to the spiced chicken. The natural sweetness balances out the savory elements perfectly!
- Herb Infusion: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your hummus to enhance freshness and flavor. They will brighten up your sliders and make each bite more aromatic.
- Whole Grain Goodness: Use whole grain or gluten-free slider buns to cater to dietary needs while retaining that delightful taste and texture everyone loves.
- Creamy Avocado: Mash up some avocado to layer on the sliders for a rich, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the spices. You might just find it hard to go back!
Let your creativity run wild and enjoy making these sliders your own!
What to Serve with Chicken Shawarma Sliders?
Pairing flavors and textures is key to crafting a memorable meal that elevates your Chicken Shawarma Sliders to new heights.
- Crispy Spicy Fries: The heat and crunch of these fries create an exciting contrast, making them the ultimate finger food to compliment your sliders.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad offers a blend of colors, textures, and bright flavors that beautifully balance the hearty sliders.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy yogurt-based dip, tzatziki provides a refreshing counterpart that enhances the spices of the shawarma.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted to perfection, the sweetness of these wedges pairs delectably with the savory spices of the sliders.
- Chickpea Salad: Light and protein-packed, this salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds a fresh, crunchy element that brings the meal together.
- Minted Lemonade: The bright and zesty notes of this refreshing drink will complement the spices of the sliders, offering a perfect sip between bites.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley: Warm, caramelized veggies add depth and texture, creating a wholesome side that rounds out your meal beautifully.
- Baklava: For a sweet finish, this layered pastry filled with nuts and honey provides a delightful contrast to the savory sliders. Enjoy the little moments—your meal is sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Shawarma Sliders are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to deeply infuse for a more robust taste. Simply follow the marinating steps, cover the chicken, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can slice the red onions and prepare the hummus spread a day ahead; just store them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the marinated chicken, assemble the sliders with the prepared ingredients, and you’ll have these crowd-pleasing Chicken Shawarma Sliders ready to serve with minimal effort!
Chicken Shawarma Sliders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Shawarma Sliders?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are recommended. They stay moist and flavorful. However, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts; just remember to adjust your cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Very! In fact, marinating the chicken overnight is ideal for enhancing flavor. This allows the spices to infuse into the meat, making every bite bursting with deliciousness.
How do I store leftover sliders?
You can store leftover Chicken Shawarma Sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help them retain their moisture and flavor. Just reheating in the oven can refresh them rather than using the microwave, which can dry them out.
Can I freeze the sliders?
Absolutely! To freeze, first lay the assembled sliders on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, be cautious with the ingredients. The recipe contains poultry, onion, and possible allergens in the hummus. Always check the labels for specific allergens, especially if you’re using different flavors of hummus.
What can I use instead of slider buns?
Very creative! If you want lighter options, consider using lettuce wraps or whole grain pita bread. Both alternatives provide a fresh, healthy twist while still holding all the delicious fillings.
Savory Chicken Shawarma Sliders for Flavor-Packed Fun
Equipment
- - Oven
- - Baking sheet
- - Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Spice Mix
- 1 tbsp Ground Cumin Essential spice with warm notes
- 1 tbsp Ground Turmeric Adds vibrant color
- 1 tbsp Ground Coriander Citrusy spice flavor
- 1 tbsp Ground Garlic Powder Adds savory depth
- 1 tbsp Ground Paprika Offers mild sweetness
- 3 cloves Cloves Intense spice
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adds heat to taste
For the Chicken Filling
- 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Main protein
- 1 cup Red Onion Sliced, sharp bite
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil Helps marinate the meat
For Assembly
- 12 pieces Slider Buns Whole wheat for healthier option
- 1 cup Sabra Hummus Creamy substitute for mayonnaise
- 2 cups Butter Lettuce Fresh and crunchy
Instructions
How to Make Chicken Shawarma Sliders
- Prepare Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, cloves, and cayenne.
- Marinate Chicken: Pat the spice mixture onto the chicken thighs. Combine lemon juice, half of the sliced red onion, and olive oil in a bowl; toss to coat chicken. Marinate for at least 3 hours.
- Cook Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, then broil for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble Sliders: Spread hummus on both halves of the slider buns, layer with chicken, remaining onions, and butter lettuce. Serve immediately.