37g Protein, Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

When it comes to weeknight dinners, quick and delicious options are a must. Picture this: you return home after a long day, the smell of spices and spices fills the air, and soon you’re ready to dig into a meal that not only satisfies but also nourishes. You can whip up these Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw in about 45 minutes, proving that wholesome meals don’t need to come from takeout. Plus, did you know that incorporating lean protein like chicken into your meals can help you feel fuller longer? Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that brings both taste and nutrition to the table!

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Why Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw is Your New Go-To Dinner

If you’re looking for a dinner option that blends health, convenience, and bold flavors, this recipe is the winner. These chicken pitas not only boast juicy, marinated chicken but also feature a crunchy, creamy slaw that’s packed with flavor. Plus, the versatility of ingredients like fresh herbs lets you tailor it to your taste while ensuring your family will love it too!

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious chicken pitas:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple or a mix)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 pita pockets
• Optional toppings: Sliced cucumber, tomato, or avocado

Let’s Cook

Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub this marinade evenly over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for 15 minutes while preparing the slaw. Pro tip: Marinating even longer brings out the flavors more, so feel free to let it soak while you prep!
2. In a large bowl, mix shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed and set aside. Expert hint: Toss the slaw just before serving for maximum crunch!
3. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Quick tip: Resting the chicken ensures it remains juicy!
4. Warm the pita pockets in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes until soft and pliable, making them easier to stuff. Pro trick: You can wrap them in a clean towel while warming to keep them warm!
5. Stuff each warmed pita pocket with sliced chicken and a generous portion of the herby ranch slaw. Add optional toppings such as sliced cucumber, tomato, or avocado as desired.
6. Serve the prepared chicken pitas immediately while still warm. They pair well with crispy fries or a light salad for a complete meal.

Balanced Bites

In a single serving of these chicken pitas, you can expect the following nutritional benefits:

• Serving size: 1 filled pita
• Calories: Approximately 430
• Protein: 37 grams
• Carbs: 46 grams
• Fat: 12 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

This recipe offers a splendid balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for maintaining energy without overloading on calories. The crunch of the slaw adds extra fiber and a good dose of vitamins!

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving these chicken pitas with a light cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar or crispy baked fries for a satisfying crunch. They’re ideal for summer picnics or cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize your pitas with different toppings based on the season, such as roasted red peppers in the fall or fresh salsa in the summer.

How to Store It Right

To ensure your pitas remain as delicious as day one, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong the freshness, you can freeze the marinated chicken (before cooking) for up to three months—just thaw in the refrigerator before preparing. For reheating, pop the chicken back onto a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and enjoy crunchy slaw fresh from the fridge!

Expert Tips

1. Marinate Longer: Leave the chicken in the marinade for a few hours or overnight to truly deepen the flavors.
2. Homemade Dressing: Experiment with yogurt-based dressings by adding herbs or spices for a twist.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking and browning.
4. Extra Crunch: Add crunchy toppings like nuts or seeds to the slaw for texture!
5. Presentation Counts: Present the pitas in a rustic wooden board for a more appealing meal.

Flavor Experiments

Take your chicken pitas to the next level with these creative tweaks:

1. Gourmet Spin: Add crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives to the slaw for a Mediterranean twist.
2. Seasonal Touch: Toss in some fresh strawberries or blueberries during summer for a burst of sweetness.
3. Spicy Kick: Mix some chipotle sauce into your ranch dressing for a smoky and spicy flavor upgrade.

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Dried Out Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will make it tough. Always use a meat thermometer for doneness.
2. Soggy Slaw: Adding dressing too early can wilt the slaw. Dress just before serving for crispness.
3. Underseasoning: Don’t go light on seasoning—chicken needs flavor! Taste as you go to adjust.
4. Cold Pitas: Warming pitas is essential for pliability—don’t skip this step!
5. Unbalanced Flavors: Balance creaminess of the dressing with acidity from lemon juice or vinegar to enhance flavors.

What to Do with Leftovers

1. Wrap It Up: Create a delicious wrap by adding leftover chicken and slaw in a tortilla for a quick lunch.
2. Chicken Salad: Mix chopped leftover chicken with more yogurt and herbs for a tasty chicken salad.
3. Slaw Tacos: Use the leftover slaw as a crunchy topping for fish or veggie tacos for an easy dinner.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating for best flavor absorption.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can substitute it with sour cream or buttermilk in the dressing for a different flavor profile.

Can I prep the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for more flavor.

What sides go well with chicken pitas?

Crispy fries, quinoa salad, or a fresh fruit medley complement the chicken pitas perfectly!

And there you have it—a practical, tasty, and family-friendly recipe that proves weeknight dinners don’t have to lack excitement. Enjoy the crunch of the slaw and the juicy chicken all in your favorite pita!