Shawarma Spiced Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
While the kids and I love this meaty version, my vegetarian husband is a HUGE fan of my Vegan Sheet Pan Shawarma. They have practically the same ingredients and cook in the same amount of time, at the same temperature. I often make both versions at the same time and we feast on leftovers for lunch the next day. To make both, simply place the sheet pan with the chicken on a lower rack in the oven and the vegan sheet pan supper on a rack that is in a higher position. This will keep any chicken splatters away from the vegan friendly dinner.
While the kids and I love this meaty version, my vegetarian husband is a HUGE fan of my Vegan Sheet Pan Shawarma. They have practically the same ingredients and cook in the same amount of time, at the same temperature. I often make both versions at the same time and we feast on leftovers for lunch the next day. To make both, simply place the sheet pan with the chicken on a lower rack in the oven and the vegan sheet pan supper on a rack that is in a higher position. This will keep any chicken splatters away from the vegan friendly dinner.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- juice of 2 lemonsâ
- 1/2 cup pompeian robust extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic smashed and minced
- 2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon aleppo pepper flakes
- 1 large head of cauliflower broken into small florets
- 1 can of chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 2 small red onions quartered
- 2 pounds
- 1 whole lemon halved for roasting on pan
- optional garnishes: cilantro or micro green cilan crumbled feta, sliced green onions.
- Carbohydrate 41.160795692 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.360113555 g
- Fiber 10.2646804847608 g
- Protein 5.133346785 g
- Saturated Fat 0.15969676215 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 (431g)
- Sodium 325.1575737 mg
- Sugar 30.8961152072392 g
- Trans Fat 0.61238560785 g
- Calories 147 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a 13" x 18" baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl combine the lemon juice, Pompeian Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, aleppo pepper flakes, and cinnamon. Whisk to combine.
- Divide the marinade into 2 bowls.
- Add the chicken to the first bowl, turning to coat each piece in the marinade. Set aside.
- Add the cauliflower florets and chickpeas to the second bowl, turning the ingredients together with a large spoon or tongs until all of the vegetables are coated.
- Arrange the chicken on the sheet pan first, spooning any remaining marinade from the bowl on top of the pieces of chicken.
- Next, add the seasoned cauliflower and chickpeas to the pan around the chicken.
- Layer in the onion quarters and place the 2 lemon halves, cut side down on the pan, one near the top and one near the bottom.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
- To serve, squeeze the roasted lemon halves over the chicken and vegetables then garnish with desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Shawarma Spiced Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious dinners that the whole family will enjoy. This Shawarma Spiced Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a true lifesaver! It's incredibly flavorful, comes together in a flash, and requires minimal cleanup – a trifecta of goodness in my book. The best part? It's adaptable to various dietary needs. While my kids gobble up the chicken version, my husband, a devoted vegetarian, loves the vegan counterpart (which uses the same spice blend and cooking method, just substituting cauliflower and chickpeas for the chicken). This makes it a perfect solution for families with diverse preferences, like mine.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The vibrant shawarma spice blend – a harmonious mix of warm spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric – infuses the chicken and vegetables with an irresistible aroma and taste. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the rich spices, while the olive oil ensures everything roasts beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy chicken and perfectly caramelized vegetables. I often roast both the chicken and the vegan versions simultaneously, placing them on different oven racks to prevent any cross-contamination. It’s a time-efficient strategy that allows for a complete and satisfying meal for everyone.
Beyond the ease of preparation, this recipe's versatility is a significant advantage. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be fantastic additions. And the garnishes? Oh, the possibilities are endless! Fresh cilantro, crumbled feta cheese, or sliced green onions add the perfect finishing touch. I frequently use whatever fresh herbs I have on hand, allowing the recipe to evolve with the seasons.
This recipe is not just a weeknight dinner; it’s a perfect solution for gatherings. Double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a budget-friendly and time-saving option. I often pack the leftovers for lunch, a healthy and flavorful alternative to store-bought options. It’s a recipe that truly caters to the needs of a busy family, providing a delicious and satisfying meal without the stress and hassle of elaborate cooking.
Beyond the Recipe: A Weeknight Ritual
This Shawarma Spiced Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner has become more than just a meal; it's a small ritual in our family. The process of prepping the ingredients, the fragrant aroma filling our kitchen as it roasts, and the shared meal around our dinner table – it's all a part of creating a warm and comforting atmosphere. Even the little ones pitch in, helping with tasks like washing vegetables or setting the table. These small moments, woven into the fabric of our weeknight routine, are what make our family life richer and more fulfilling.
The recipe's simplicity frees up time for other things, like connecting with family, finishing a work project, or simply enjoying a moment of peace. It is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy meals don't have to be complicated. It’s a recipe that embodies the spirit of effortless elegance, bringing joy and satisfaction to our busy lives, one sheet pan at a time.
Adapting to Your Lifestyle:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a quicker weeknight meal, pre-chop the vegetables earlier in the day or even the night before. For those watching their sodium intake, reduce the amount of salt used. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking – a little more heat, a little less spice – the possibilities are endless. And if you're short on time, skip the garnishes, and the meal is still incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The key is to make it your own and tailor it to your specific needs and preferences.
So, if you're looking for a delicious, easy, and adaptable dinner recipe that will please everyone, give this Shawarma Spiced Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner a try. It’s a weeknight winner that will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
