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 pounds 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; 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Tahini sauce or yogurt for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:01:15.721Z

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining tender chicken with aromatic spices, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender, flavorful chicken infused with Middle Eastern spices
Effortless preparation thanks to the crockpot
Versatile bowls that can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

The Essence of Shawarma

Shawarma, a beloved Middle Eastern street food, is renowned for its aromatic spices and tender meat. Traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, this dish captures the essence of spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, creating a symphony of flavors. In our Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls, we take this classic dish and simplify the preparation, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness without the need for special equipment.

The slow cooking process in a crockpot not only makes the chicken incredibly tender but also infuses it with the rich flavors of the spice blend. Each bite offers a delightful experience that transports you to the bustling streets of the Middle East, making this dish a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Customizing Your Bowls

One of the best aspects of these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out rice for quinoa for a gluten-free option, or add roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make each bowl a unique creation.

Consider adding toppings like pickled onions, olives, or feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor. You can even make it a meal prep favorite by preparing multiple servings in advance. This way, you’ll always have a nutritious and delicious meal ready to go, making your busy weekdays a little easier.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further with the right serving suggestions. Pair them with a side of warm pita bread and hummus to complement the flavors of the shawarma. A fresh salad or a light soup can also work well to create a well-rounded meal.

For beverages, consider serving a refreshing mint lemonade or a yogurt-based drink like ayran to balance the spiciness of the chicken. These pairings not only enhance the dining experience but also bring a touch of authenticity to your meal, making it feel like a true Middle Eastern feast.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Shawarma bowls:

For the Chicken

2 pounds 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

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

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Shawarma bowls:

Prepare the Chicken

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

Cook in the Crockpot

Transfer the seasoned chicken to the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it well with the juices in the crockpot.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice or quinoa, topped with shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red cabbage, and parsley.

Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle with tahini sauce or yogurt, and enjoy your delicious Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls!

Enjoy your meal with friends and family!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken

To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly tender and flavorful, make sure to use high-quality boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They have more fat than chicken breasts, which helps keep the meat moist during cooking. Additionally, don't rush the cooking process; the longer you allow the chicken to cook in the crockpot, the more it will absorb the spices and develop rich flavors.

If you're short on time, you can also marinate the chicken overnight with the spice mixture. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply, creating an even more delicious result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if the chicken is less than room temperature when placed in the crockpot.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, as you can easily reheat it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making leftovers a treat.

To reheat, simply place the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you find the chicken has become a bit dry, adding a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil can help restore its moisture. Enjoy these bowls warm, with fresh toppings added just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs provide more moisture and flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! The chicken can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, olives, or pickled vegetables to customize your bowls.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa and check your sauces for gluten content.