Ah, the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich! Just saying the name makes my mouth water, doesn’t it? This recipe has become one of my go-to dinners, especially on busy weeknights when I want something quick yet packed with flavor. I fell in love with shawarma during a trip to the Middle East, where the combination of spices and juicy meat was nothing short of magical. This sandwich takes that experience and makes it effortlessly accessible right in my kitchen!
What I love about this recipe is how it brings together the deliciousness of chicken shawarma with the creamy, tangy goodness of Havarti cheese, all tucked into a crusty sandwich. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing (or not, no judgment!). Whenever I prepare this dish, it reminds me of the vibrant street markets where the aroma of spices fills the air, and everyone is gathered around, enjoying food together. So, let’s dive into what makes this sandwich special and how you can create it for yourself!
What’s in Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
Chicken Thighs: A fantastic choice for this recipe, chicken thighs are juicy and tender, making them perfect for marinating in those shawarma spices. I usually grab boneless, skinless thighs, as they cook evenly and soak up flavors wonderfully.
Shawarma Spices: This is where the magic happens! A mix of cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of turmeric create that authentic shawarma taste. Don’t skip on this; it’s what brings everything together!
Olive Oil: Essential for marinating the chicken and giving it that inviting, crispy exterior. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for the rich flavor, but any good-quality olive oil will do.
Havarti Cheese: This creamy cheese melts beautifully and adds a delightful tang to the sandwich. It’s one of my favorites! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try a pepper jack for some added kick!
Sandwich Rolls: Look for crusty rolls that will stand up to the filling and not fall apart. Ciabatta or sub rolls work great here!
Lettuce & Tomatoes: Fresh veggies not only add a crunch but also balance the richness of the cheese and chicken. I love using romaine lettuce and ripe tomatoes, but feel free to mix it up!
Yogurt Sauce: A simple mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs adds a refreshing touch that complements the spices beautifully.
Is Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This sandwich not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a good balance of protein and vegetables.
Chicken Thighs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, they are definitely the star of this dish. Just remember, while they’re richer in flavor than chicken breasts, moderation is key!
Havarti Cheese: While delicious, cheese can be high in fat and calories, so it’s wise to enjoy it in reasonable portions. But hey—it’s a sandwich, a little indulgence never hurt anyone!
Vegetables: The addition of lettuce and tomatoes means you’re also getting vitamins and fiber—yay! They offer a fresh crunch, which is always a plus.
Just ensure that you consider portion sizes and overall balance in your diet, and you’ll be good to go! This sandwich can fit into a healthy eating plan if enjoyed in moderation.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons shawarma spice mix (see below for a quick blend)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 4 slices Havarti cheese
– 4 crusty sandwich rolls (ciabatta or sub)
– Lettuce and tomato slices for garnish
– For the yogurt sauce:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) to taste
*Serves 4*
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, combine chicken thighs, shawarma spice mix, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure the chicken is coated evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge if you have the time.
2. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. **Bake the Chicken:** Spread the marinated chicken thighs evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and edges are crisp.
4. **Melt the Cheese:** In the last 5 minutes of baking, place 1 slice of Havarti cheese on each chicken thigh and return to the oven until melted.
5. **Make the Yogurt Sauce:** While the chicken is baking, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped herbs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Assemble Your Sandwiches:** Slice open the sandwich rolls and layer with lettuce, juicy slices of tomato, a piece of chicken with melted cheese, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve warm, and be prepared to go back for seconds!
Creative Twists on a Classic Comfort
If you want to mix things up a bit, here are some variations and serving suggestions for your Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich:
– **Add some crunch:** Consider including crunchy cucumber slices or pickled red onions for extra flavor and texture.
– **Make it spicy:** Try slapping on some hot sauce or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
– **Go veggie:** Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a plant-based version.
– **Wrap it up:** Instead of a sandwich, use a tortilla or pita to wrap everything up for a different take.
I hope you give this recipe a try! It’s perfect for weeknight meals or when you’re just craving something extra special. If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Happy cooking!
