Ah, the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich! If you love bold flavors and satisfying sandwiches as much as I do, you’re in for a treat! This delightful fusion of spices and creamy Havarti cheese is like a party in your mouth. I remember the first time I made this—my friends were over for game night, and I wanted to impress them with something unique but also super easy to put together. The aroma of the spices wafting through the house was enough to get everyone excited, and by the time we sat down to eat, they were practically drooling!
What I adore about this recipe is its convenience. Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Plus, the combination of juicy chicken, earthy spices, and luscious melted cheese creates a whole experience that’ll have you coming back for seconds (and thirds). If you’re looking to wow your family or friends, or just want to treat yourself to some amazing food, this recipe will certainly do the trick!
What’s in Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re lean and cook up wonderfully tender. You can use thighs if you enjoy a bit more richness!
Shawarma Spice Blend: This is where the magic happens! A combination of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and a pinch of cinnamon gives the chicken its warm, fragrant flavor. I love using a pre-mixed blend to save time, but feel free to make your own for a fresh take.
Olive Oil: Helps in tenderizing the chicken and adds a rich flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to, but regular is fine too.
Bell Peppers and Red Onion: These vibrant veggies not only add color but also a delicious sweetness that balances the savory spices. Use any color of bell pepper you like—sometimes I even mix a few for a rainbow effect!
Havarti Cheese: Creamy and slightly nutty, it melts beautifully over the chicken. I recommend a good quality Havarti for the best flavor. If you can’t find it, a mild mozzarella works too.
Pita or Ciabatta Bread: This is where your filling goes! Use pita for a traditional approach or ciabatta if you’re feeling a bit fancy.
Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or cilantro really brightens up the sandwich. Fresh herbs are a game-changer!
Is Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich Good for You?
This sandwich can certainly tick some boxes in the health department. The use of lean protein from the chicken means you’ll be getting a good source of essential nutrients without excess fat.
Chicken Breast: A fantastic source of protein, perfect for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full longer.
Olive Oil: Rich in heart-healthy fats, this oil can help you maintain good cholesterol levels.
Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, they can boost your immune system and give you glowing skin!
However, bear in mind that depending on the type of bread and cheese you choose, the caloric intake can add up. If you’re watching carbs or calories, simply swap out the bread for lettuce wraps or whole-grain pita.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 3 tablespoons shawarma spice blend
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color you prefer)
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 4 oz Havarti cheese, sliced
– 4 pita breads or 2 ciabatta rolls
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering!
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil with the shawarma spice blend to form a marinade. Add the chicken breast, ensuring they’re well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the marinated chicken in the center of the sheet.
4. Arrange the sliced bell peppers and red onion around the chicken.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add slices of Havarti cheese on top of the chicken, returning the pan to the oven until the cheese is beautifully melted.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice the chicken and load it into your pita or ciabatta roll with the roasted peppers and onions.
8. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, add any extra toppings you like, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Your Shawarma Sandwich
– Try adding a dollop of tzatziki or hummus for an extra layer of flavor.
– Don’t forget some crunchy pickles—dill or pickled onions work beautifully!
– Serve with a side salad or some crispy sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
I really hope you give this Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich a try! It’s one of those recipes that’s not just about feeding your belly, but also about creating memories. When you make it, snap a pic and let me know how it turned out—I love hearing from you! Happy cooking!
