Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite meals—the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich! I first stumbled upon this gem during one of my kitchen exploration nights, where I decided to get a little adventurous with flavors. The combination of tender chicken marinated in warm shawarma spices, pillowy bread, and gooey Havarti cheese, all roasted to perfection, is simply divine.
What makes this recipe extra special is the ease of preparation. You can just toss everything on a sheet pan, set it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Plus, it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser for those lazy weekends when you’re entertaining friends or just pampering yourself. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!
What’s in Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
– Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, I prefer boneless skinless thighs for this recipe because they stay tender and don’t dry out.
– Shawarma Spice Blend: A heavenly mix of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and other spices. You can either make your own or grab a pre-made blend from the spice aisle—no need to complicate things!
– Olive Oil: Essential for marinating the chicken and keeping everything moist. I always opt for extra virgin for that delicious and robust flavor.
– Red Onion: Adds a sweet crunch. I love using red onions for their vibrant color and milder flavor, which perfectly complements the spices.
– Bell Peppers: A colorful addition! I usually go for a mix of red and yellow for sweetness and visual appeal, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
– Havarti Cheese: Oh, this is the star of the show! Creamy, soft, and melts beautifully, making it the perfect cheese for our warm sandwich.
– Pita Bread or Sub Rolls: The vessel for our goodness! Pita adds a fun twist, but sub rolls are fantastic for a more classic approach.
– Fresh Herbs (like parsley or cilantro): A sprinkle of herbs at the end brings a bright, fresh flavor to the sandwich.
Is Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich Good for You?
You bet! This meal has a medley of health benefits.
– Chicken Thighs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Opting for thighs over breasts can also boost flavor and satisfaction.
– Vegetables (Onions and Bell Peppers): Adding those veggies packs in vital vitamins and minerals, along with tons of color and nutrients.
– Olive Oil: This heart-healthy oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels. A little drizzle goes a long way in keeping things moist and flavorful.
Just keep in mind that while these sandwiches are delicious, moderation is key with the cheese and oil content—especially if you’re watching your calories. But hey, treat yourself once in a while, right?
Ingredients
– 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons shawarma spice blend (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers, sliced (red and yellow)
– 8 ounces Havarti cheese, sliced
– 4 pita bread or sub rolls
– Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
* Serves 4 people.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Get your kitchen nice and toasty!
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, shawarma spice blend, olive oil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated in the flavorful goodness!
3. Spread the marinated chicken on a sheet pan, along with the sliced red onions and bell peppers. The more the merrier!
4. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove the pan from the oven, and sprinkle the Havarti cheese over the top. Pop it back in the oven for about 5 more minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. While the cheese is melting, warm your pita bread or sub rolls in the oven or microwave just until soft.
7. To assemble the sandwiches, layer some of the chicken and vegetables onto the bread, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and enjoy your heavenly creation!
Garnish & Enjoy!
Here’s where you can get creative! Consider adding some spicy mayo or tzatziki sauce for a little extra flair. And if you have any leftover chicken or veggies, toss them into a salad or wrap for lunch the next day; nothing goes to waste in my kitchen!
I cannot recommend this recipe enough! It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet flair, and it all comes together in one pan—who doesn’t love that? Give it a try, and I’d love to hear about your kitchen adventures with this fabulous sandwich. Happy cooking!
