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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls, perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:16:14.554Z

This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. The slow cooking method allows the spices to meld beautifully with the chicken, resulting in a dish that's both aromatic and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spiced chicken that cooks to perfection in your slow cooker
Convenient meal prep that allows for easy weeknight dinners
Versatile bowl that can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

Exploring Middle Eastern Flavors

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its vibrant spices and fresh ingredients, which create dishes that are both flavorful and aromatic. Shawarma, a popular street food, features marinated meat that is slow-cooked to perfection, infusing it with a plethora of spices. This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl captures those authentic flavors while being simple to make at home. With its warm spices and zesty lemon, each bite transports you to a bustling market in the Middle East.

The combination of spices used in this recipe provides a delightful depth of flavor. The earthy notes of cumin and coriander blend beautifully with the smokiness of paprika, while cayenne adds just the right amount of heat. This balance makes the dish appealing to a wide range of palates, whether you enjoy spicy food or prefer milder flavors.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is its convenience. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it. Simply toss your seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go. Cooking in bulk means you can enjoy these bowls throughout the week, making it a smart choice for meal prep enthusiasts.

Additionally, the bowls can be customized to suit individual tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer quinoa over rice, want to add extra veggies, or need a dairy-free option, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Garnishing for Flavor and Presentation

Garnishing your shawarma bowls enhances both the flavor and presentation of the dish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the spices beautifully. Lemon wedges not only brighten the dish but also allow each person to customize their meal with a squeeze of citrus, enhancing the overall taste experience.

When serving, consider adding additional toppings like feta cheese, olives, or a drizzle of tahini sauce for an extra flavor boost. These additions not only elevate the dish but also provide a more authentic Middle Eastern experience, allowing you to explore the full spectrum of flavors in your homemade shawarma bowls.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Bowls

4 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker for a flavorful meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cayenne, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well with the spice mixture.

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and cover. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Assemble the Bowls

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks. Serve over cooked rice or quinoa and top with diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a dollop of Greek yogurt. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying meal!

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a refreshing tabbouleh salad, which adds a burst of freshness to the meal. The combination of parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat provides a delightful contrast to the spiced chicken, making each bite a unique experience.

For an added crunch, serve your bowls with pita chips or a side of roasted vegetables. These options not only enhance the meal's texture but also contribute additional flavors that work beautifully with the shawarma.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, shred the chicken and store it separately from the rice and toppings. This way, you can reheat each component as needed, ensuring a fresh-tasting meal each time.

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The rice or quinoa can also be reheated quickly, and don’t forget to top with fresh ingredients again for a vibrant and delicious meal.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to experiment with different spices or proteins. Try using chicken breasts for a leaner option or swap the chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. You can also adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less cayenne pepper, or even incorporating different spices like sumac or za'atar for a unique flavor profile.

Additionally, consider adding seasonal vegetables to your bowls. Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even a dollop of homemade hummus can elevate the dish further, making it not just a meal but a delightful culinary adventure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier than thighs when cooked.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or any dairy-free yogurt if preferred.