Welcome to another delicious and easy-to-make meal! Today, we’re diving into the world of Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw, a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner solution or want to impress guests, these pitas will become your new go-to recipe. If you love flavorful chicken dishes, this one’s for you!
Introduction to Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
This recipe takes inspiration from Middle Eastern cuisine, blending warm spices with the cool and refreshing taste of a yogurt-based slaw. Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas offer the perfect combination of tender chicken, crispy cabbage slaw, and creamy avocado, all wrapped in soft pitas. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s both comforting and healthy, making it a great choice for a summer dinner or a light lunch.
The Sheet Pan Chicken technique not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures the chicken remains juicy while developing a caramelized crust. If you’re a fan of quick and wholesome meals, this Chicken Pitas recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
To create this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, sliced
Herby Ranch Slaw
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chives, minced
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1/2 small head green cabbage, shredded
Additional Ingredients
- 2-3 pitas
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option, and you may use gluten-free pitas to accommodate dietary needs.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 425º F, preferably on convection mode, to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, kosher salt, and olive oil. Once everything is evenly coated, add lemon slices and toss again.
Step 3: Spread the chicken
Spread the chicken mixture onto a sheet pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. This helps the chicken brown evenly.
Step 4: Bake the chicken
Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Toss the chicken halfway through and continue baking for another 4-7 minutes until the chicken is caramelized and crispy.
Step 5: Prepare the Herby Ranch Slaw
While the chicken is baking, mix plain yogurt, dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a large bowl. Add the shredded cabbage and toss to combine. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Assemble the pitas
Warm the pitas in the microwave or oven. Stuff each pita with the Herby Ranch Slaw, add a generous amount of chicken, and top with cubed avocado.
Enjoy your Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with a side of your favorite salad or chips for a complete meal!
Helpful Tips for Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the spice mixture for deeper seasoning.
- Don’t skip letting the slaw sit for 10-15 minutes! This time helps the cabbage soften and absorb the delicious ranch flavors.
- If you like your pitas crispier, lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes before assembling.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
- Use a convection oven: This will ensure the chicken crisps up perfectly while staying juicy inside.
- Lemon slices add a bright, tangy flavor to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
- Slice the chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking. This will help avoid undercooked or dry pieces.
Serving Suggestions for Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
Serve these Chicken Pitas with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or sweet potato fries for a complete and balanced meal. A cold glass of mint lemonade or iced tea would also make a great pairing. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a side of tzatziki for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrition. Each serving of Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas provides a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded meal option.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Vitamins: A, C, K
Storage and Leftovers for Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
To store your leftovers, place the chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers. The chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, and the slaw will stay fresh for about 2 days. When ready to eat, warm the chicken in the oven or microwave and assemble your pitas fresh. Avoid reheating the slaw to preserve its crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
1. Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe works well with boneless thighs, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
2. How can I make the slaw dairy-free?
Simply substitute the plain yogurt with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond-based yogurt.
3. Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the slaw up to 24 hours in advance. Just give it a toss before serving.
4. Are there gluten-free pita options available?
Yes, there are many gluten-free pita options in stores, or you can use lettuce wraps as a low-carb alternative.
Related Recipes for Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas Lovers
If you loved this recipe, check out these other delicious ideas from Optimal Recipes:
Conclusion
We hope you love this Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw recipe as much as we do! Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any personal twists you added to the dish. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
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Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw Recipe
Description
Welcome to another delicious and easy-to-make meal! Today, we’re diving into the world of Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw, a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner solution or want to impress guests, these pitas will become your new go-to recipe. If you love flavorful chicken dishes, this one’s for you!
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, sliced
Herby Ranch Slaw
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chives, minced
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1/2 small head green cabbage, shredded
Additional Ingredients
- 2–3 pitas
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 425º F, preferably on convection mode, to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, kosher salt, and olive oil. Once everything is evenly coated, add lemon slices and toss again.
Step 3: Spread the chicken
Spread the chicken mixture onto a sheet pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. This helps the chicken brown evenly.
Step 4: Bake the chicken
Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Toss the chicken halfway through and continue baking for another 4-7 minutes until the chicken is caramelized and crispy.
Step 5: Prepare the Herby Ranch Slaw
While the chicken is baking, mix plain yogurt, dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a large bowl. Add the shredded cabbage and toss to combine. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Assemble the pitas
Warm the pitas in the microwave or oven. Stuff each pita with the Herby Ranch Slaw, add a generous amount of chicken, and top with cubed avocado.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the spice mixture for deeper seasoning.
- Don’t skip letting the slaw sit for 10-15 minutes! This time helps the cabbage soften and absorb the delicious ranch flavors.
- If you like your pitas crispier, lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes before assembling.
