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: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Cooked rice or quinoa; Chopped cucumbers; Diced tomatoes; Sliced red onion; Chopped parsley; Tahini sauce or yogurt

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the bold and vibrant flavors of Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls, where tender chicken simmers in a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:22:09.554Z

This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a delightful fusion of spices and convenience. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is infused with flavor and remains juicy. Serve it over rice or in a pita for a satisfying meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Flavorful and aromatic spices create an unforgettable taste
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfect for meal prep and tastes great as leftovers
Versatile: enjoy in bowls, wraps, or salads

      

A Flavor Explosion

The Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are a true celebration of flavors. The blend of cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika infuses the chicken with a warm, aromatic essence that transports your taste buds to the streets of the Middle East. Each bite is a delightful balance of spice and zest, thanks to the addition of cayenne pepper and fresh lemon juice, which brighten up the dish and enhance its complexity.

Not only do these spices add depth to the chicken, but they also create a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks. This recipe is a fantastic way to introduce bold flavors to your weeknight dinners, making mealtime a special occasion rather than a chore.

Effortless Meal Prep

One of the best features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your crockpot and walk away, allowing the chicken to cook slowly and develop rich flavors. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a nutritious meal without the fuss.

Additionally, these bowls are ideal for meal prep. The chicken can be cooked in bulk and stored in the fridge, making it easy to assemble delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply pair the chicken with your choice of grains and fresh toppings for a satisfying meal that tastes great even as leftovers.

Versatile Serving Options

The versatility of Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is another reason to love this recipe. While the classic serving suggestion includes rice or quinoa, you can easily customize your bowl to suit your preferences. Use whole wheat wraps or pita bread for a tasty sandwich option, or toss the chicken into a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Don't forget about the toppings! Fresh cucumbers, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, and chopped parsley not only add color and texture to your dish but also enhance the nutritional value. Drizzling with tahini sauce or yogurt provides a creamy finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving

Cooked rice or quinoa
Chopped cucumbers
Diced tomatoes
Sliced red onion
Chopped parsley
Tahini sauce or yogurt

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

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

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and cover. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shred with a fork.

Shred and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Mix well with the juices. Serve over rice or quinoa and top with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, parsley, and tahini sauce or yogurt.

Enjoy your delicious bowls with friends and family!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing any leftovers from your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is easy. Simply place the chicken and any toppings in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. This dish also freezes well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Just ensure the chicken is cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you're using the microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Health Benefits of Chicken Shawarma

Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, making this shawarma bowl not only delicious but also nutritious. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Additionally, the spices used in this recipe, such as cumin and coriander, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and may aid digestion.

By incorporating fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, you're also enhancing the meal's vitamin content. These toppings provide essential nutrients and fiber, contributing to a well-rounded, healthy meal that supports your dietary goals.

Customize Your Shawarma Bowl

Feel free to get creative with your Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls! You can experiment with different grains like couscous or farro, or add roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

For a vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for chickpeas or grilled vegetables marinated in shawarma spices. This way, you can enjoy the same vibrant flavors while accommodating different dietary preferences. The recipe's flexibility makes it a hit for everyone at the table!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use yogurt or a simple lemon-garlic sauce as an alternative.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe itself is gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional toppings or sauces are also gluten-free.