Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich

The Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich is a perfect fusion of bold Middle Eastern flavors and creamy, melty Havarti cheese, all packed into a hearty sandwich. This recipe simplifies the traditional chicken shawarma by roasting everything on a single sheet pan, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Juicy, spiced chicken combines with caramelized onions and vibrant bell peppers, all layered with Havarti cheese in warm, toasted bread. This sandwich is versatile enough for a quick dinner, a meal-prep lunch, or even a party-worthy platter. With its ease of preparation and bold flavors, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation, thanks to the sheet pan method.
• Fusion Flavors: Combines the aromatic spices of shawarma with the creamy richness of Havarti cheese.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Great for making ahead and assembling fresh when needed.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike due to its approachable yet exciting flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual weeknight dinners, lunches, or game-day feasts.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 large sandwiches
• Serving Size: 1 sandwich

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 610
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Shawarma

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Vegetables

• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sandwich Assembly

• 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
• 8 slices Havarti cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
• ½ cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Season the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced onions and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Roast Everything on a Sheet Pan

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the Ingredients: Spread the marinated chicken thighs on one side of the sheet pan and the seasoned vegetables on the other. Ensure everything is in a single layer for even roasting.
3. Roast: Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

1. Rest and Slice: Let the roasted chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the sandwich rolls or buns under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a generous layer of tzatziki sauce on the bottom half of each roll. Add shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, roasted vegetables, sliced chicken, and two slices of Havarti cheese.
3. Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the Havarti cheese melts and becomes gooey.
4. Top and Serve: Add the top half of the roll, slice the sandwich in half if desired, and serve warm.

Ingredient Background

Chicken Shawarma

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs are ideal for roasting and absorb marinades beautifully.
• Middle Eastern Spices: Cumin, paprika, coriander, and cinnamon are staples in shawarma seasoning, creating its signature warm and aromatic flavor.

Havarti Cheese

• Mild and Creamy: Havarti melts perfectly, adding a rich, velvety layer to the sandwich without overpowering the shawarma spices.

Tzatziki Sauce

• Creamy and Refreshing: Made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, tzatziki adds a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, spiced chicken.

Technique Tips

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Marinating the chicken longer enhances the depth of flavor, so aim for at least 2 hours if time allows.
• Single Layer Roasting: Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the sheet pan to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
• Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the sandwiches under the broiler to prevent the cheese or bread from burning.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shawarma Bowls: Serve the roasted chicken and vegetables over a bed of rice or couscous, topped with tzatziki and Havarti slices.
• Flatbread Wraps: Swap sandwich rolls for flatbreads or pita bread to make handheld wraps.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative to sandwich buns.

Additional Tips for Success

• Double the Batch: Roast extra chicken and vegetables for meal prep or to use in salads, wraps, or bowls throughout the week.
• Customize the Spice: Adjust the cayenne pepper and seasoning to match your preferred heat level.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu.
• Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a lighter, seafood-inspired version.
• Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, provolone, or even feta for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Store Leftovers: Keep roasted chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat Properly: Warm leftovers in a skillet or oven to retain their texture and flavor.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Lean Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option.
• Whole Grain Rolls: Swap white sandwich rolls for whole grain buns to add fiber.
• Extra Vegetables: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and variety.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game-Day Feast: Serve the sandwiches alongside fries or a fresh salad for a crowd-pleasing spread.
• Lunch Buffet: Arrange all the ingredients separately and let guests assemble their own sandwiches.
• Picnic Favorite: Wrap the sandwiches in parchment paper for an easy-to-transport meal.

Special Equipment

• Sheet Pan: A large, rimmed sheet pan ensures everything roasts evenly without spilling.
• Meat Thermometer: Use a thermometer to check that the chicken is fully cooked.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing the chicken and vegetables cleanly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work, but they may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Omit the Havarti or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

3. What bread works best for this sandwich?
Soft rolls, hoagie buns, or ciabatta bread are excellent choices for holding all the ingredients.

4. Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting it?
Yes, grilling the marinated chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the spices.

5. How do I make homemade tzatziki sauce?
Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or eggplant would be great additions.

7. Is Havarti cheese essential?
Not at all! While Havarti is creamy and mild, you can substitute with any good melting cheese.

8. How can I make this sandwich spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper to the marinade or drizzle sriracha or chili oil over the assembled sandwich.

Conclusion

The Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich is a delicious and innovative way to enjoy the bold, aromatic flavors of shawarma with the creamy richness of Havarti cheese. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant ingredients, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion, from quick family meals to game-day feasts. Its versatility, bold flavors, and simplicity make it a standout recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Serve warm, enjoy with friends or family, and savor every delicious bite!

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