Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich

You’re going to love this one—it’s a flavorful, no-fuss recipe that comes together effortlessly and delivers big, bold flavors! Think of tender, spiced chicken with the perfect balance of garlic, cumin, and paprika, roasted to juicy perfection on a sheet pan. Then, add some rich, melty Havarti cheese for that creamy, dreamy finish. All of this goodness is tucked into a soft sandwich roll, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner. Trust me, it’s a game-changer that you’ll want to make over and over again.

Why You’ll Love Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich

This recipe isn’t just about tossing ingredients together; it’s about the joy of easy prep, savory chicken, and a sandwich that feels so comforting yet exciting at the same time. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

Versatile

Whether you’re craving something quick for dinner, packing it for lunch, or feeding a group at a casual get-together, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for friends and family to rave about.

Budget-Friendly

No need to break the bank—this recipe uses affordable ingredients that are packed with flavor. You won’t need to go on a shopping spree; everything you need is easy to find and budget-friendly.

Quick and Easy

If you’ve ever been intimidated by complicated recipes, this one is for you. A sheet pan is your best friend here—throw everything on, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It’s a no-stress, high-reward meal.

Customizable

Love spice? Feel free to bump up the seasoning with extra cayenne or chili flakes. Prefer things milder? Skip the heat and enjoy the juicy chicken and creamy cheese. It’s totally up to you!

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this sandwich has something for everyone. The mix of savory chicken, melting Havarti, and soft bread is universally loved. It’s an easy win for the whole table.

Ingredients

The beauty of this sandwich lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you need to make this flavor-packed dish:

Chicken Breasts

The chicken takes center stage here! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a bold shawarma spice mix will soak up all those warm, smoky flavors and become tender and juicy.

Shawarma Spices

We’re talking cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, and a hint of cinnamon. This fragrant spice blend is what gives the chicken that irresistible shawarma flavor.

Olive Oil

A drizzle of olive oil helps keep the chicken juicy and creates a crispy exterior when it hits the oven.

Havarti Cheese

Melt-in-your-mouth creamy goodness. The mild, buttery flavor of Havarti cheese balances out the spices beautifully.

Pita or Sandwich Rolls

These soft, pillowy pitas or sandwich rolls are the perfect vehicle for your chicken and cheese. They’re the foundation that holds it all together.

Fresh Veggies (optional)

Add a crisp element with some lettuce, tomato, and onion. These fresh veggies complement the rich chicken and creamy cheese perfectly.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s make these sandwiches! This is a simple, hands-off recipe that results in something delicious—here’s how it’s done:

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together your shawarma spices—cumin, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil to the mix to make a marinade. Coat the chicken breasts with the spice mix, making sure they’re fully covered. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes (or longer, if you’ve got time).

Roast the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken breasts on the prepared sheet pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken will be juicy, tender, and have that golden-brown exterior we’re looking for.

Melt the Cheese

About 5 minutes before the chicken is done, add a slice of Havarti cheese on top of each piece of chicken. Pop the pan back in the oven to melt the cheese to a beautiful, gooey perfection.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted, slice the chicken into strips. Place the chicken and cheese into your pita or sandwich rolls. Top with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomato, and onion, if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Wrap up your sandwich, take a big bite, and enjoy! It’s a flavorful, hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for more.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwich

These sandwiches are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Side Salads

Pair your sandwiches with a fresh, light salad. A Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta would be perfect to balance the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Crispy Fries

Who doesn’t love a side of crispy fries? Serve your chicken shawarma sandwich with golden fries for that perfect casual meal combo.

Roasted Vegetables

Roast some carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower to complement the savory chicken. Roasted veggies make an excellent side and add a lovely burst of color to your meal.

Pickles

Tangy pickles make the perfect addition to cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken. Try dill or even some quick-pickled onions for an extra punch.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make your sandwich even better:

Prep Ahead

Marinate the chicken the night before to really let those spices soak in. It’ll be ready to go when you are!

Spice It Up

If you like things spicy, add a little cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the spice mix. A dash of hot sauce would also be great when assembling the sandwich.

Make It Vegetarian

Substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based version that’s still packed with flavor.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, and assemble your sandwiches fresh.

Double the Batch

Make extra chicken to have on hand for other meals. This chicken is great in wraps, salads, or even as a topping for rice bowls.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A1: Yes! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, and they’d work wonderfully with this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! Marinate the chicken ahead of time, then roast and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat. The flavors will only get better.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store the chicken and any extra veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken before assembling the sandwiches.

Q4: Can I freeze the chicken?

A4: Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave before using.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

A5: Of course! Just use a larger sheet pan or cook the chicken in batches if needed. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it.

Q6: Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

A6: Yes! Skip the pita and serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to keep it keto-friendly.

Q7: What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A7: Some great options include a Greek salad, crispy fries, or roasted vegetables.

Q8: How can I make this dish healthier?

A8: Opt for whole wheat pitas and load up on fresh veggies. You can also use reduced-fat Havarti for a lighter option.

Q9: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?

A9: A sheet pan lined with parchment paper is all you need! It makes for easy cleanup and ensures the chicken roasts evenly.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Chicken Shawarma Havarti Sandwiches are a deliciously easy meal that combines bold spices, tender chicken, and melty cheese in one irresistible package. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your rotation. Enjoy the flavors of shawarma without the fuss—this one’s sure to impress!

Print