Hey there, fellow food enthusiast! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes that has a special place in my heart (and my stomach). We’re diving into the world of deliciousness with my irresistible Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. I had just returned from a delightful trip to a local food festival, where I got a tantalizing taste of shawarma and knew I had to recreate it at home. The smell of spices filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t resist hovering around, eager for a taste. By the time dinner rolled around, we were all so excited that we forgot to take a picture! So, fair warning: you might want to snap a photo before it disappears at your dining table.
### What’s in Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this sandwich such a star.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: The star of the show! Chicken thighs are juicy and packed with flavor. I absolutely love using these instead of chicken breasts because they stay tender and moist after baking.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil keeps the chicken nice and juicy while helping those spices cling beautifully to the meat. I always reach for a good quality extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
Shawarma Spice Blend: This is where the magic happens! The blend of cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, and cayenne adds a delightful kick. If you can’t find a pre-made spice blend, you can mix your own!
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential! I prefer using Sea salt for the best flavor, but regular table salt works too.
Red Onion and Bell Pepper: These colorful veggies add sweetness and crunch to the sandwich. You can use either red or green bell peppers, depending on your mood (or whatever you have in the fridge!).
Lavash or Pita Bread: These are perfect for wrapping around all the good stuff! I like lavash because it’s easy to fold, but pita works just as well.
Havarti Cheese: Creamy and mild, this cheese takes everything up a notch. You could use mozzarella or even feta for a bit of tang if you’re feeling adventurous!
Fresh Spinach Leaves: Leafy greens for a healthier touch! The spinach adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro adds brightness to each bite. I can never resist a sprinkle of fresh herbs!
Tzatziki or Garlic Sauce: This is totally optional, but why would you skip it? These sauces add a creamy, tangy finish that takes the sandwich to the next level!
### Is Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich Good for You?
Absolutely! This sandwich is not just savory and scrumptious; it offers some nutritional benefits too:
– **Protein-Rich:** The chicken thighs and Havarti cheese provide a solid amount of protein, making this sandwich a great post-workout meal or an energy booster for your day.
– **Vitamins and Minerals:** Fresh spinach and bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, which are great for your immune health and skin.
– **Healthy Fats:** Olive oil is a source of healthy fats that can support heart health when consumed in moderation.
However, keep in mind that while this sandwich is tasty, it can be a bit heavy if you’re watching your calorie intake. I like to serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal!
### Ingredients List
This recipe serves 4, so gather up the following for a delicious feast:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp shawarma spice blend (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, cayenne)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
– 4 pieces of lavash or pita bread
– 8 oz Havarti cheese, sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
– Optional: tzatziki sauce or garlic sauce for serving
### How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich?
Are you ready to get cooking? Let’s break it down into some easy steps!
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting!
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, shawarma spice blend, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together so that the chicken is nicely coated with those lovely spices.
3. Spread the marinated chicken, sliced onions, and bell peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice the chicken into strips; trust me, it makes for a prettier sandwich!
5. Lay your lavash or pita bread on a flat surface. Start by layering a generous amount of spinach leaves on each piece.
6. Add the sliced chicken, onion, and bell pepper mixture over the spinach. Top with slices of Havarti cheese.
7. Fold the lavash or pita over the filling to create a scrumptious sandwich. You can even wrap it in parchment paper or foil to keep it together.
8. If you’re feeling indulgent, put the sandwiches back on the baking sheet, and return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the bread is slightly crispy and the cheese melts into gooey goodness.
9. Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh herbs on top, and don’t forget to serve with tzatziki or garlic sauce on the side!
### Sandwich Secrets: Tips for the Best Experience
– **Make it spicy:** If you like a bit more heat, feel free to add more cayenne or some sliced jalapeños into the mix!
– **Veggie Variations:** Add in some sliced cucumbers or roasted eggplant for an extra crunch and flavor burst.
– **Meal Prep:** Cook extra chicken and veggies to use for lunch wraps during the week. Just heat it up, and you have a quick meal ready to go!
And there you have it, my delicious Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich! I can’t wait for you to give this a try. Each bite is flavorful, fulfilling, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to share your experiences or modifications you make. Happy cooking!
