Name: Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner: Easy, Flavorful, and Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 lemon zest and juice; 1 Tbsp. tomato paste; 1 tsp. ground coriander; 1 tsp. ground cumin; 1 tsp. smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric; 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon; 2 Tbsp. full-fat Greek yogurt (divided); 5 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil (divided); Kosher salt; 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (sliced into 1/2" strips); 2 garlic cloves (grated or finely chopped); 2 Tbsp. tahini; 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley (chopped, divided); 3 mini cucumbers (finely chopped); 1 pt. cherry tomatoes (quartered or halved); 2 small red onions (sliced into 1/4" to 1/2" wedges); toasted pita (for serving)

Introduction to Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

What is Chicken Shawarma, and why is it perfect for a busy weeknight meal?

Chicken shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish, featuring marinated and grilled or roasted meat, typically served in pita or flatbreads with an array of fresh toppings. Its vibrant spices and tender chicken create a flavor explosion that makes it a favorite for many! But what really makes this dish stand out as a chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner is its convenience.

When you’re juggling a full schedule, the last thing you want is a time-consuming dinner prep. This recipe simplifies the traditional shawarma experience by allowing you to cook everything on a single sheet pan. With minimal cleanup and preparation, you can quickly toss together the marinated chicken with colorful vegetables and let the oven do the work.

According to a study by the USDA, the average person saves hours each week by focusing on quick, healthy meals. This dish packs in lean protein and nutritious vegetables, making it not just a time-saver, but also a wholesome choice for your family. So, if you're looking for an easy, flavorful, and nutritious meal that can be prepared in no time, this chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner is your go-to solution!

For more on the benefits of meal prepping, check out this insightful article(source).

Ingredients for Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Essential Ingredients for Marinated Chicken

To make the chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner truly flavorful, you’ll need a blend of vibrant spices and fresh ingredients. Start with:

Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into ½" strips
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
2 garlic cloves, grated or finely chopped

Next, bring on the spices:

1 tsp. each of ground coriander, cumin, smoked paprika
½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper and ground turmeric
¼ tsp. each of cayenne pepper and ground cinnamon

These elements work together to create a marinade that’s bursting with flavor. Feeling adventurous? Check out resources like The Spruce Eats for tips on balancing spices!

Fresh Veggies and Toppings to Elevate the Dish

To complement the savory chicken, it’s all about fresh, crunchy veggies and delightful toppings:

2 small red onions, sliced into wedges
3 mini cucumbers, finely chopped
1 pt. cherry tomatoes, quartered or halved
2 Tbsp. tahini
2 Tbsp. plus ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, divided

Don’t forget the toasted pita for serving! These vibrant ingredients add color, texture, and nutrients, turning your sheet-pan dinner into a complete meal. Want more inspiration? Check out EatingWell for ideas on using seasonal produce.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Ready to dive into a delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner? With a blend of spices, tender chicken, and colorful veggies, this dish offers a delightful experience for both your palate and your schedule. Let’s get started!

Marinate the chicken

First things first, let’s give your chicken some love! In a large bowl, whisk together:

Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon each of ground coriander, cumin, and smoked paprika
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground turmeric, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons of full-fat Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt

Now, throw in your sliced boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds) and toss to coat. Let this marinate for at least 30 minutes—this step is crucial for building those bold flavors. While your chicken soaks up all that goodness, it’s the perfect time to tackle the sauce and veggies!

Prepare the tahini yogurt sauce

Next, let’s whip up a creamy tahini yogurt sauce that will elevate your chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner. In a small bowl, combine:

2 cloves of grated or finely chopped garlic
2 tablespoons tahini
Juice from half a lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
The remaining ½ cup of Greek yogurt

Whisk it all together until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you want an extra fluffy texture, feel free to use a food processor! Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Assemble the vegetable mix

While the chicken is marinating, let’s create a vibrant vegetable medley. In a medium bowl, mix:

3 mini cucumbers, finely chopped
1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
A heavy pinch of salt
¼ cup chopped parsley

This fresh mix will complement the warm shawarma perfectly, giving you a balance of flavors and textures.

Prep the baking sheet and roast

Now that everything is ready, preheat your oven to 425°F and arrange a rack in the lower third. For your sheet pan, toss 2 sliced small red onions with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt until well coated. Spread the onion mixture across a large baking sheet and arrange the marinated chicken around the onions in a single layer.

Roast everything in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and a thermometer reads 165°F.

Serve and enjoy!

Finally, it’s time to dig in! Once out of the oven, drizzle the tahini yogurt sauce over your beautifully roasted chicken and onions. Top it with the fresh cucumber mixture for a burst of flavor. Serve everything alongside toasted pita for that authentic shawarma experience. Dig into your home-cooked chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner and enjoy the combination of spices and fresh flavors!

For more tips and tricks on preparing delicious meals, check out resources from the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service or learn about the health benefits of spices on Healthline. Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Vegetarian or Plant-Based Options

If you’d like to switch things up, consider using chickpeas or tofu as a protein substitute for your Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner. Toss them in the same marinade for an equally satisfying flavor. Cauliflower is another fantastic option; roast it alongside the veggies for a hearty, plant-based twist. Not only are these options delicious, but they also add a great texture to the dish!

Different Protein Alternatives

Craving something different? Mix it up with turkey or beef as a replacement for chicken. Both proteins soak up the marinade beautifully while still delivering that amazing shawarma flavor. For a lighter option, fish like salmon or shrimp can be a game changer, truly enhancing the versatility of this dish. Don’t hesitate to explore — your taste buds will thank you!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Best practices for marinating

To achieve maximum flavor in your chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, aim for 2-4 hours or even overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeper, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat. For a personal touch, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to your marinade!

Ensuring an even cook

When arranging your chicken and onion on the baking sheet, ensure they're in a single layer without overcrowding. This helps both components cook evenly and develop those desirable, lightly charred bits! If you find yourself cooking larger batches, consider using two sheets to avoid steaming and stickiness. For more tips on baking, check out this resource.

Don’t forget to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; an internal temperature of 165°F guarantees juicy perfection!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Creative Ways to Serve with Pita

Transform your chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner into a delicious spread! Warm some toasted pita pockets for an authentic experience. You can fill them with the roasted chicken, drizzle the creamy tahini yogurt sauce, and add a sprinkle of the refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. For added flavor, try incorporating some pickled vegetables or a zesty harissa sauce. Don’t forget to personalize each pita—let your guests mix and match to their liking!

Side Dishes That Pair Well

Enhance your meal with complementary side dishes! Here are some great options:

Tabbouleh Salad: This light, herbaceous salad will provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the shawarma.
Roasted Vegetables: Consider seasoned bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to bring another layer of flavor.
Hummus and Veggie Platter: Perfect for dipping and provides a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the spices.

These sides will not only elevate your chicken shawarma experience but also create a colorful and inviting dining spread. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Preparation time

Get ready to enjoy a delicious chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner! This recipe requires about 30 minutes for prep, which includes marinating the chicken and preparing your fresh toppings.

Cooking time

Once prepped, the cooking is straightforward. You'll need about 25 minutes for roasting everything to perfection in the oven.

Total time

In just 55 minutes, you can have a flavorful, colorful chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner on the table, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends and family. Enjoy the savory aroma filling your kitchen!

For tips on perfecting your sheet-pan meals, check out this helpful guide.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Estimated calories per serving

This delicious chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner brings you about 450 calories per serving, making it a well-balanced meal option that's satisfying and nourishing without being overly indulgent.

Protein content

Packed with 37 grams of protein, this dish offers a great source of lean protein from the boneless, skinless chicken thighs, helping you stay full and energized throughout the day.

Sodium level

With roughly 600 milligrams of sodium per serving, you can enjoy flavorful seasoning without going overboard. It's always a good idea to monitor your sodium intake, especially if you're watching your salt consumption. Check out these guidelines from the American Heart Association for more tips on managing sodium levels in your diet.

Now that you have a clearer understanding of the nutritional benefits of this chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner, you're perfectly equipped to include this delightful meal in your weekly meal prep!

FAQs about Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

Can I prep this dish in advance?

Absolutely! To make your weeknight cooking even easier, you can marinate the chicken and chop the veggies a day in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The spices will deepen in flavor, making your chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner even tastier!

What's the best way to store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven to crisp things up. You could also use a microwave, but it can make everything a bit softer. Consider enjoying it in a wrap or over a fresh salad for a delightful twist!

How can I customize the spices used?

Feel free to experiment! If you love heat, add more cayenne or toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the cayenne. Think about adding other spices like curry powder or even a little sumac for a unique twist. Your chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner can be as personal as your palate!

For more on spices, you might want to check out this resource on different spice profiles and how they can transform your dishes.

Conclusion on Chicken Shawarma Sheet-Pan Dinner

A chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner is not just delicious; it's a versatile meal that's perfect for busy nights. The ease of preparation and robust flavors make it a fantastic addition to your weekly menu. Try it out, and you might just fall in love with this satisfying dish!

Why You Should Make This Dish a Regular in Your Rotation

If you're looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this dish checks all the boxes! Here are a few reasons to keep it in your regular dinner rotation:

Time-Saving: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a wholesome meal ready in under an hour.
Flavorful Variety: The combination of spices offers a bold flavor profile, keeping your taste buds excited.
Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies, it’s a well-rounded option.
Customizable: Feel free to mix and match with different veggies or sides based on your preferences!

For more chicken recipes or inspiration, check out Serious Eats or BBC Good Food. Make the chicken shawarma sheet-pan dinner a staple; your taste buds will thank you!