Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Name: Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls. Perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauces come together for a delicious meal.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:22:15.970Z

This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delightful twist on traditional shawarma. The slow-cooking process allows the spices to infuse deeply into the chicken, creating a tender and flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender, flavorful chicken infused with spices
Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time
Perfect for meal prep or family dinners

      

The Essence of Shawarma

Shawarma is a beloved dish that originates from the Middle Eastern region, known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Traditionally made with marinated meats, shawarma is often cooked on a vertical rotisserie. In this recipe, we bring the essence of shawarma home by using a crockpot, which allows the chicken to absorb all those delightful spices while cooking slowly. This method ensures that the chicken comes out tender and juicy, making it the star of your meal.

The key to a great shawarma lies in the spice blend. In this recipe, we use a mix of cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, which creates a warm and slightly spicy flavor profile. The addition of garlic and lemon juice not only enhances the taste but also adds a refreshing brightness that balances the spices beautifully. Each bite delivers a punch of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of the Middle East.

Healthy and Wholesome Ingredients

This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs not only keeps the meal lean but also ensures maximum tenderness. Pairing the chicken with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions enhances the nutritional profile and adds a satisfying crunch. These veggies are rich in vitamins and minerals, making the dish a wholesome choice for any meal.

Additionally, serving the chicken over rice or quinoa provides a hearty base that complements the flavors beautifully. Quinoa, in particular, is a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious, plant-based option. The creamy tzatziki sauce drizzled over the top not only adds moisture but also infuses the bowl with cooling flavors, creating a balanced dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its suitability for meal prep. With minimal hands-on time and easy assembly, you can whip up several servings in one go. Simply cook a larger batch of the chicken in your crockpot, shred it, and portion it out with your choice of grains and veggies. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and you’ll have healthy lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.

Moreover, this dish is versatile and can easily be customized to suit your preferences. You can swap out the veggies for your favorites or add ingredients like roasted chickpeas for extra protein. The flavors only get better as they sit, making these bowls ideal for enjoying on busy weekdays. Just grab a container, heat it up, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal in minutes!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Bowls

2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix all the ingredients well before cooking for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and rub the spice mixture all over them. Squeeze lemon juice on top.

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.

Assemble the Bowls

Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. In bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, followed by the shredded chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious shawarma bowls!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

For the best results, choose chicken thighs over breasts, as they remain juicy and tender even after long cooking times. If you prefer using chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time to avoid drying them out. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the spice mixture, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly. Additionally, allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor even further.

When shredding the chicken, use two forks or your hands while the meat is still warm for easier handling. This will help you achieve the ideal texture and make it easier to mix with the other bowl ingredients. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary before serving, as everyone's palate is different.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are perfect as is, but you can also experiment with various toppings and sides. Consider adding sliced avocado, pickled red onions, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor. You can also serve the bowls with warm pita bread or a side of hummus to round out the meal and provide additional dips for your vegetables.

If you're looking to spice things up even more, try drizzling a hot sauce or a chili paste over the top of your bowl. For a lighter option, replace rice or quinoa with a bed of mixed greens, creating a refreshing salad version of this dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to enjoy this recipe repeatedly without getting bored!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and adjust the cooking times.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

These bowls pair well with pita bread or a side salad for a complete meal.