Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls

Name: Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat); Juice of 1 lemon; Cooked rice or quinoa; Chopped cucumbers; Diced tomatoes; Sliced red onion; Chopped parsley; Tzatziki sauce or hummus

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

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

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:58:15.267Z

This recipe combines tender, spiced chicken with fresh toppings, making it a delicious and healthy meal option.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich blend of spices that creates a mouthwatering flavor
Tender chicken that practically falls apart with a fork
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces

      

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its rich flavors and fragrant spices. This Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl offers a modern twist on the classic recipe, making it accessible and easy to prepare on busy weeknights. The crockpot method allows the chicken to absorb all the spices, resulting in a dish that is both aromatic and satisfying.

This recipe captures the essence of traditional shawarma while simplifying the cooking process. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a gourmet experience. The combination of spices brings warmth and depth to the chicken, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best features of these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize the bowls according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the rice for quinoa or a bed of greens for a lighter option. Experiment with different toppings, such as roasted vegetables or avocado, to create your perfect bowl.

The dish is also great for serving a crowd. Set up a build-your-own shawarma bowl station, allowing everyone to choose their favorite ingredients. This interactive dining experience not only makes mealtime fun but also ensures that everyone leaves satisfied.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are perfect for meal prepping. Cook a larger batch of chicken at the beginning of the week, and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners. The flavors develop even further as the chicken sits, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals.

Simply store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, reheat it and assemble your bowl with fresh ingredients. This not only saves time but also helps you maintain a healthy diet throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving

Cooked rice or quinoa
Chopped cucumbers
Diced tomatoes
Sliced red onion
Chopped parsley
Tzatziki sauce or hummus

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

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat thoroughly.

Cook in Crockpot

Transfer the seasoned chicken to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Assemble the Bowls

Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks. Serve over cooked rice or quinoa and top with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce or hummus.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy chicken shawarma bowls!

Tips for the Perfect Shawarma Bowl

To enhance the flavor of your shawarma bowls, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This extra time allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken. If you're short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still yield delicious results.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with the spice levels. If you love heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Conversely, for a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your shawarma bowls with a side of pita bread for a more authentic Mediterranean experience. Pita can be used to scoop up chicken and toppings, adding a delightful texture to your meal. Pairing the dish with a simple salad or roasted vegetables can also provide a refreshing contrast to the warm spices.

For an added touch, drizzle your bowls with a homemade tahini sauce or a squeeze of lime. These finishing touches can elevate the overall experience and add a burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be less tender than thighs.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free grains or toppings.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

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