Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Name: Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Tahini or yogurt sauce for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls. Perfectly seasoned chicken cooked low and slow for a tender, flavorful dish.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:04:11.055Z

This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl takes the hassle out of meal prep while delivering authentic flavors. The chicken marinated in aromatic spices practically falls apart after hours in the slow cooker, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken infused with a variety of spices
Convenient slow-cooked meal that practically makes itself
Versatile serving options with fresh veggies and grains

      

The Rich Flavors of Shawarma

Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its savory spiced meat, typically cooked on a vertical rotisserie. However, this Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma recipe brings the iconic flavors to your home kitchen with ease. By using a crockpot, you allow the chicken to absorb a medley of spices, creating a dish that's both flavorful and tender. It's a perfect way to enjoy the essence of shawarma without needing specialized cooking equipment.

The combination of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika creates a complex flavor profile that is both inviting and satisfying. Each bite offers a delightful burst of savory goodness, enhanced by the warmth of cayenne pepper and the freshness of garlic. This dish is not just about heat; it’s about harmony and balance, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Meal Prep Made Simple

One of the best aspects of this Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma is its convenience. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, which is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. Simply cook a large batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.

By using grains like rice or quinoa as the base, you can easily create a nutritious and filling meal. Add in fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, and you have a well-rounded dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you're serving it to family or packing it for lunch, these bowls are sure to please.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them according to your taste preferences. While the recipe provides a delicious base of rice or quinoa, feel free to experiment with different grains or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also add elements like roasted red peppers, olives, or pickled vegetables to enhance the flavor profile even further.

Don’t forget the sauces! A drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce adds a rich, creamy finish that complements the spices beautifully. You can also make a quick herb sauce by blending yogurt with fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless, making these bowls a go-to recipe for any meal occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Bowls

4 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Tahini or yogurt sauce for drizzling

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken and coat well with the spice mixture.

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Assemble the Bowls

Once the chicken is done, shred it using two forks. In bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by the shredded chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.

Serve

Drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent option for meal planning, allowing you to enjoy your delicious creation throughout the week. When storing, keep the sauce separate to maintain the freshness of the flavors.

To reheat, simply place the chicken and grains in the microwave until warmed through, or heat them on the stovetop for a few minutes. If the chicken seems dry, adding a splash of water or broth can help restore its moisture. This quick reheating method ensures you get to enjoy the delightful flavors of your shawarma bowls even on the busiest of days.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. Chicken thighs, while rich in flavor, are also a great source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. The spices used in this recipe, such as cumin and coriander, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal.

Adding fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes boosts the fiber and vitamin content of your meal. This combination not only helps promote a healthy digestive system but also keeps you feeling fuller for longer. By choosing whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, you increase the dish's nutrient density, providing sustained energy throughout the day.

Customizing Your Bowls

Feel free to get creative with your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls. The base of rice or quinoa can be swapped for cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Adding a variety of toppings, such as avocado or feta cheese, can elevate the dish and cater to your own flavor preferences. Don’t hesitate to switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

If you're looking for a little crunch, consider adding some roasted chickpeas or nuts as a topping. This not only enhances the texture but also adds more nutrients to your meal. The versatility of these bowls means you can make them your own with minimal effort, ensuring that you’ll never get bored of this delicious recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more easily. Thighs are recommended for a juicier result.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use yogurt, hummus, or a simple olive oil and lemon dressing as alternatives.