Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich Recipe

Introduction

The Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich combines the bold, aromatic flavors of Middle Eastern shawarma with the comforting satisfaction of a melty, cheesy sandwich. Featuring perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich Havarti cheese, all baked on a sheet pan for ease and flavor, this sandwich is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and spiced goodness. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or preparing lunch for a group, this easy-to-make yet incredibly flavorful sandwich will quickly become a favorite.

The joy of making this dish lies in the simplicity of roasting everything on a single sheet pan, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while reducing cleanup. The creamy Havarti adds a wonderful texture to the sandwich, while the tangy and smoky flavors of the shawarma spices elevate the dish to a whole new level. This recipe is ideal for those craving a flavorful, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches

• Flavor-Packed Shawarma: The chicken is marinated in a delicious shawarma-style spice blend, including cumin, paprika, garlic, and turmeric. These spices infuse the chicken with a complex and bold flavor profile that is rich, smoky, and slightly spicy.
• Creamy Havarti Cheese: The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Havarti cheese adds a rich and indulgent layer to the sandwich, balancing the spice of the chicken with a mild, buttery flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: Everything cooks on a single sheet pan, making this recipe both easy to prepare and clean up. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Perfect Texture: The chicken comes out tender and juicy, while the bread is perfectly toasted, with the cheese perfectly melted inside. Every bite offers a wonderful mix of textures, from the crispy bread to the creamy cheese and juicy chicken.
• Versatile and Customizable: The sandwich can be customized with different vegetables, sauces, and bread types. You can easily add toppings such as pickles, tomatoes, or a drizzle of tahini for extra flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 sandwiches
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per sandwich, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

For the Sandwich:

• 4 sandwich rolls or pita bread (your choice)
• 4 slices Havarti cheese (or more if desired)
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 small tomato, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings and Sauces:

• Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
• Pickled vegetables (e.g., pickled cucumbers or turnips)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shawarma Chicken Marinade

To start, make the marinade for the chicken. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients together to create a fragrant spice paste.

Next, cut the chicken thighs into strips or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the spice paste, ensuring each piece is well-covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Sheet Pan

While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Once the oven is preheated and the chicken has marinated, place the chicken pieces on the sheet pan, spreading them out in an even layer.

3. Cook the Chicken Shawarma

Roast the marinated chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown and tender, with a slight crisp around the edges.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare your vegetables and bread. Slice the red onion, cucumber, and tomato, and set aside.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized strips or keep the pieces whole, depending on your sandwich preference.

Next, drizzle the sandwich rolls or pita with a bit of olive oil and place them on a separate sheet pan or in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up and lightly toast the edges. This step adds extra flavor and crispiness to the bread.

On the bottom half of each roll or pita, layer the cooked chicken, then top with a slice of Havarti cheese. Place the rolls back in the oven for another 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

5. Add Vegetables and Sauce

Once the cheese has melted, remove the sandwiches from the oven. Add the sliced red onion, cucumber, and tomato to each sandwich. If you’re using any optional toppings, such as tahini sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, or pickled vegetables, now is the time to add them.

Season the sandwiches with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches hot, with your favorite sides, such as fries, salad, or roasted vegetables. These sandwiches are perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner that’s packed with flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches

• Chicken Thighs for Moisture: While you can use chicken breasts, chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, especially when roasted. Thighs also absorb the shawarma spices beautifully, creating a tender and flavorful sandwich.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables to your sandwich. Roasted bell peppers, lettuce, or even arugula would add some nice crunch and freshness.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken in advance (up to 2 days in the fridge) to allow the spices to fully permeate the meat. This step makes preparation even quicker when you’re ready to cook.
• Crispier Bread: If you prefer a crispier sandwich, try grilling the sandwich rolls on a stovetop or using a panini press after assembling the sandwich. This will create a crunchy exterior and a melty, gooey interior.
• Sauces: For an extra layer of flavor, you can make a simple garlic yogurt sauce or tahini sauce by mixing plain yogurt with garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil. Alternatively, tahini and lemon juice mixed together create a creamy, nutty sauce that pairs wonderfully with shawarma.

Variations of Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches

• Spicy Shawarma: For an extra kick, add some chopped fresh chilies or a bit of hot sauce to the chicken marinade.
• Shawarma with Feta: Instead of Havarti cheese, you can use feta cheese for a tangier and saltier alternative. Feta pairs wonderfully with the spices in the shawarma and adds a Mediterranean twist to the sandwich.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with roasted vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, and eggplant. These vegetables pair beautifully with the shawarma spices and make for a satisfying, plant-based sandwich.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have leftovers, you can store the components separately in airtight containers. The cooked chicken will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The sandwich bread and vegetables can also be stored for 1-2 days, but it’s best to reheat the chicken and cheese before assembling the sandwich to preserve the texture.

To reheat, place the chicken and bread in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up. Avoid microwaving the sandwich if possible, as this can make the bread soggy.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches

While the sandwich itself is hearty enough to stand alone, pairing it with complementary sides can take your meal to the next level:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries are the perfect side for any sandwich, adding a salty, crispy contrast to the rich chicken and cheese.
• Mediterranean Salad: A simple salad with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and olives drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the sandwich.
• Pickled Vegetables: Serve with some tangy pickles or pickled turnips for an authentic Middle Eastern flair.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts complement the shawarma spices and add an earthy flavor.

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Conclusion

The Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings together bold shawarma spices, juicy chicken, and creamy Havarti cheese in a delicious sandwich. The ease of roasting everything on a sheet pan makes this dish perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal. With its wonderful balance of savory and creamy elements, it’s sure to become a staple in your sandwich repertoire.

Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this sandwich today, and savor every bite of this satisfying and irresistible dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a gathering with friends, the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich is guaranteed to be a hit!