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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp ground cumin; 2 tbsp ground coriander; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp olive oil; Cooked rice or quinoa; Chopped cucumber; Diced tomatoes; Sliced red onion; Fresh parsley or cilantro; Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-28T14:58:12.456Z

This recipe brings the thrill of shawarma right to your kitchen. With minimal prep and a slow cooker, you can enjoy tender, flavorful chicken that's perfect for bowls or wraps.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic spices that tantalize your taste buds
Effortless preparation with a slow cooker for busy days
Versatile dish perfect for meal prep or family dinners

      

The Aromatic Spice Blend

At the heart of these Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls is a delightful blend of spices that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen. The combination of cumin, coriander, and paprika creates a rich, aromatic base that infuses the chicken with deep flavors. Each spice plays a crucial role; for instance, turmeric offers a warm earthiness, while cayenne adds a subtle kick that elevates the dish to new heights.

This spice mix is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits. Cumin is known for its digestive properties, while coriander can help reduce inflammation. Together, these spices create a flavorful experience that satisfies both your taste buds and your health-conscious side.

Effortless Slow Cooking

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity, thanks to the use of a slow cooker. With just a few minutes of preparation, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, ensuring that the chicken becomes tender and juicy by the end of the cooking process.

For busy weeknights, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can prepare the chicken in the morning, allowing you to come home to a warm, flavorful meal without any fuss. This effortless cooking method not only saves time but also makes cleanup a breeze, giving you more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.

Versatility for Every Occasion

These Spicy Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowls are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're planning a casual family dinner, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this dish can adapt to your needs. The ingredients can easily be adjusted based on dietary preferences or what's available in your pantry.

You can serve the chicken with rice, quinoa, or even wrap it in pita bread for a delicious sandwich. Additionally, the toppings can be customized to suit individual tastes—add some pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch or avocado for a creamy texture. This flexibility ensures that everyone will find something to love in this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp ground cumin
2 tbsp ground coriander
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp olive oil

For Serving

Cooked rice or quinoa
Chopped cucumber
Diced tomatoes
Sliced red onion
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. Add the chicken thighs and coat thoroughly.

Cook in Crockpot

Transfer the seasoned chicken to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir well to mix with the juices.

Assemble the Bowls

Serve the shredded chicken over rice or quinoa, and top with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce.

Enjoy your delightful shawarma bowls!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover chicken shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to develop, making reheating just as enjoyable as the initial meal. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick meal that's just as flavorful as day one.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair your chicken shawarma bowls with a refreshing side salad or roasted vegetables. A simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with lemon and olive oil complements the spices beautifully, adding a fresh crunch to the meal.

Consider also serving the bowls with pita bread or warm naan. This adds a delightful texture and is perfect for scooping up the chicken and toppings. Don't forget to place a small bowl of tahini or yogurt sauce on the table, allowing guests to add their preferred amount of creaminess to their bowls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more quickly, so monitor the cooking time closely.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use plain yogurt, hummus, or a simple garlic sauce as a substitute.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any sauces or sides you serve are also gluten-free.