Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich
If you’re a fan of the bold, aromatic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, then you’re going to love this Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich. This easy-to-prepare recipe combines the irresistible taste of homemade chicken shawarma with the creamy, comforting embrace of melted Havarti cheese, all nestled between toasted bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Inspired by the beloved street food classic, this sheet pan version of chicken shawarma delivers all the same vibrant spices and tantalizing aroma, but with a fraction of the hands-on time. The result is a dish that’s equally suitable for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich apart is the seamless fusion of bold, Middle Eastern-inspired flavors and the comforting texture of melted cheese. The contrast between the tender, spice-rubbed chicken and the gooey, molten Havarti is truly remarkable, creating a flavor experience that’s both familiar and exotic.
Beyond the captivating taste, this recipe is also incredibly accessible, with ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores. And the best part? You can easily prepare the chicken in advance, making this a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Simply assemble the sandwiches just before serving for a hassle-free meal that’s sure to impress.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich ❓
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 slices of Havarti cheese
• 4 ciabatta rolls, split in half
The beauty of this Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of warm spices, like cumin and paprika, creates the Middle Eastern-inspired flavor profile that has made shawarma recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the spice rub.
• Step 3: Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet and generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Step 4: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Step 5: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top each chicken thigh with a slice of Havarti cheese. Return the sheet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Step 6: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
• Step 7: While the chicken is resting, toast the ciabatta rolls until golden brown.
• Step 8: Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cheesy chicken thigh on the bottom half of each ciabatta roll. Top with the remaining roll half.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
Compared to traditional Middle Eastern shawarma dishes, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich saves you 33% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 1020mg
These Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches provide approximately 68% of your daily protein requirements and 43% of your daily sodium needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the ciabatta rolls with low-carb or keto-friendly bread options, such as almond flour or coconut flour buns.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute the Havarti cheese with a dairy-free, melty cheese alternative.
• Added protein: Serve the chicken shawarma on a bed of quinoa or brown rice to boost the protein content.
• Boost vegetables: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the sandwich for an extra nutrient boost.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich with a fresh, crisp salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Complement the sandwiches with a refreshing cucumber, tomato, and red onion salad for a burst of freshness.
• For a heartier meal, serve the sandwiches alongside a warm, creamy lentil or chickpea soup.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter by slicing the sandwiches into halves or quarters and arranging them with olives, pita chips, and various dipping sauces.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Undercooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Burning the cheese: Keep a close eye on the sandwiches while broiling to prevent the Havarti cheese from burning or becoming too crispy.
• Soggy bread: Toast the ciabatta rolls before assembling the sandwiches to prevent the bread from becoming soggy from the juices of the chicken.
• Skipping the resting time: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after roasting to ensure the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the chicken shawarma up to the point of assembling the sandwiches. Place the chicken and cheese on the rolls, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the assembled sandwiches to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the sandwiches in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warm and crispy.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the chicken shawarma in advance?
Absolutely! The chicken shawarma component can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the cooked, spice-rubbed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the sandwiches. This makes for a quick and easy meal prep option.
Can I substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner, so they may not have the same rich, juicy texture as the thighs. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the breasts don’t dry out.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the Havarti cheese with a melty, dairy-free cheese alternative, such as a cashew-based or coconut-based cheese. Many of these options are now readily available in the specialty cheese section of most grocery stores.
What can I do if the chicken turns out too dry?
If the chicken ends up a bit dry, try brushing the cooked, shredded chicken with a little bit of the pan juices or a drizzle of olive oil before assembling the sandwiches. This will help reintroduce moisture and keep the meat tender and juicy.
Can I add any additional toppings or variations to this recipe?
Absolutely! This Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich is highly versatile. You can add thinly sliced red onions, fresh cilantro or parsley, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of tangy, creamy tzatziki sauce. For a spicier kick, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Conclusion
These Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, they’re sure to impress with their mouthwatering blend of tender, spice-rubbed chicken and melted Havarti cheese. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the roasting and assembly process. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the delicious harmony of chicken shawarma and Havarti cheese for yourself?
