Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Name: Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Cooked rice or quinoa; Chopped cucumbers; Chopped tomatoes; Red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh parsley, chopped; Tzatziki sauce or hummus

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Indulge in 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

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:25:12.434Z

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a wonderful way to bring the flavors of shawarma into your home. With tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh toppings, these bowls are not only delicious but easy to prepare!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender, juicy chicken infused with spices
Convenient slow-cooked meal that practically cooks itself
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides

      

A Taste of the Middle East

Shawarma is a beloved dish that originates from the Middle East, known for its savory and aromatic flavors. Traditionally made with marinated meat that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie, this crockpot version makes it accessible for home cooks. The blend of spices used in this recipe, including cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper, creates a delightful complexity that enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken thighs.

By using a crockpot, the chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in the rich spice mixture. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a bustling Middle Eastern market with every bite!

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize the toppings and sides to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Swap out traditional rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Choose your favorite fresh vegetables to add a crunch, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier touch.

If you're not a fan of tzatziki sauce, feel free to substitute it with hummus or a spicy yogurt sauce. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for families or gatherings, where everyone can create their perfect bowl based on individual tastes.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These Shawarma bowls are not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prepping. Prepare a larger batch and store the shredded chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, you can enjoy quick and nutritious meals throughout the week. Simply reheat the chicken and assemble your bowls with fresh toppings when you're ready to eat.

Additionally, you can freeze portions of the cooked chicken, which will keep well for up to three months. This allows you to have a homemade, flavorful meal ready to go whenever you need a quick dinner solution.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For Serving

Cooked rice or quinoa
Chopped cucumbers
Chopped tomatoes
Red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Tzatziki sauce or hummus

Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

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

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, 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 cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and tzatziki sauce or hummus.

Enjoy your delicious and spicy chicken shawarma bowls!

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls, consider pairing them with a side of warm pita bread or a simple salad to complement the flavors. For a refreshing twist, a side of pickled vegetables can add a nice zing and balance the spices of the chicken.

If you want to elevate the meal further, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of tahini sauce over the top. These additions can enhance the overall dining experience and introduce more textures and flavors.

Storage Tips

To store your leftover Shawarma chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it will last for up to four days in the refrigerator. Ensure to keep your toppings separate until you are ready to serve to maintain their freshness and crunch.

If you plan to freeze the chicken, portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date to keep track of freshness. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein and essential vitamins, while the spices used in the marinade offer anti-inflammatory properties. Cumin, for instance, is known for aiding digestion, while garlic is recognized for its immune-boosting properties.

By incorporating fresh vegetables and whole grains like rice or quinoa, you’re adding fiber and vital nutrients, making this a well-rounded meal that supports a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy these bowls knowing that they nourish both your body and your taste buds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the chicken?

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

→ What can I substitute for tzatziki sauce?

You can use hummus, yogurt, or a simple vinaigrette as a substitute.