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 cayenne pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 cup chopped cucumbers; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup tahini sauce or yogurt sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a flavorful and easy meal with these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls, perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:40:11.019Z

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a delicious fusion of Middle Eastern flavors and convenience. Just set it and forget it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken infused with aromatic spices
Convenient one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
Perfectly customizable with your favorite toppings

      

The Flavor Profile of Shawarma

Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its rich and aromatic spices. The combination of cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper creates a warm and slightly spicy flavor that's both comforting and exciting. These spices are not only delicious but also provide health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support. When prepared in a crockpot, the spices meld beautifully with the chicken, infusing it with deep, mouth-watering flavors.

The beauty of this Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the spices to shine without overwhelming the palate. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory and spicy notes, making it an irresistible option for those who crave bold flavors in their meals.

Why a Crockpot is Perfect for Shawarma

Using a crockpot to prepare shawarma is a game-changer for busy individuals and families. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and juicy, as the flavors have time to develop and deepen. With just a bit of preparation, you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Moreover, the convenience of a one-pot meal means minimal cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your delicious creation and less time scrubbing pots and pans. This method also ensures that the chicken retains moisture, preventing it from drying out, which can often happen with quicker cooking methods.

Customizing Your Bowls

One of the best features of these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize your bowls to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. For a lighter option, consider swapping the rice for a bed of greens, such as spinach or arugula, creating a fresh and vibrant salad base.

Feel free to experiment with toppings as well. Add slices of avocado for creaminess, pickled red onions for a tangy kick, or even roasted chickpeas for added crunch and protein. The possibilities are endless, making this dish not only delicious but also adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

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 cayenne pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 cup chopped cucumbers
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup tahini sauce or yogurt sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs.

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.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot. Stir to mix with the juices.

Assemble the Bowls

Serve the shredded chicken over rice or quinoa. Top with cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, and drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce. Garnish with parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious shawarma bowls!

Storage and Reheating

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the chicken can last for up to 4 days, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

When it comes to reheating, simply warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. If you find the chicken has dried out slightly, consider adding a splash of broth or water to help restore its moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken shawarma bowls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For an authentic touch, consider serving them with warm pita bread or flatbreads alongside. This allows you to scoop up the flavorful chicken and toppings, enhancing the overall experience.

For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle additional tahini or yogurt sauce over the bowls just before serving. You can also sprinkle some sumac or za'atar spice on top for an aromatic finish that truly elevates the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for a juicier result.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the chicken after cooking?

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

→ What can I substitute for tahini sauce?

You can use plain yogurt or a yogurt-based sauce as a substitute.