These Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw are not only delicious but also come together in just 30 minutes, making them a quick, family-friendly meal option that everyone will love. With tender chicken mingling with fresh herbs and creamy slaw, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Let’s be honest, we could all use more easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition!
Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, and everyone’s hungry after a long day. You want something that’s comforting yet fresh, and, of course, easy to pull together. Enter these irresistible chicken pitas. The sizzling aroma from the oven fills your home, instantly making it feel cozy and inviting. As the chicken bakes, you whip up a vibrant herby slaw that adds crunch and creaminess. This meal not only pleases the palate but also brings everyone together around the dinner table, creating a moment of connection and warmth.
Creating the Magic of Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
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Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Delicious and quick chicken pitas filled with tender chicken and fresh herby ranch slaw, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- 2–3 pitas
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425º F, preferably set to convection mode.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken with brown sugar, spices, salt, and olive oil. Add the lemon slices and toss again to coat.
- Spread the chicken evenly onto a sheet pan, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Bake for 15 minutes, toss the chicken, then bake for another 4-7 minutes until it’s crisp and caramelized.
- For the slaw, mix yogurt, herbs, 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 before serving.
- To serve, warm the pitas in the microwave and stuff each one with slaw, chicken, and avocado.
Notes
Best served warm. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pita
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- 2-3 pitas
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425º F, preferably set to convection mode.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken with brown sugar, spices, salt, and olive oil. Add the lemon slices and toss again to coat.
- Spread the chicken evenly onto a sheet pan, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Bake for 15 minutes, toss the chicken, then bake for another 4-7 minutes until it’s crisp and caramelized.
- For the slaw, mix yogurt, herbs, 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 before serving.
- To serve, warm the pitas in the microwave and stuff each one with slaw, chicken, and avocado.
Enjoying Your Chicken Pitas to the Fullest
These chicken pitas are best served warm, straight from the oven. The combination of spicy chicken, herby slaw, and creamy avocado creates a delightful and satisfying bite that’s hard to resist. Gather the family around the table, and watch as everyone digs in with smiles on their faces.
Storing Your Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers , although it’s hard to imagine there will be , simply store the chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll be good for about 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave and serve in fresh pitas for a quick lunch or dinner!
Tips for Perfecting Your Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure there’s enough space between the chicken pieces on the sheet pan to allow them to crisp up nicely.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Using fresh herbs in the slaw elevates the flavor significantly , don’t skimp on them!
- Adjust Spiciness to Your Preference: If you have little ones or prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper.
Fun Variations to Try
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini along with the chicken for added nutrition and color.
- Swap the Dressing: Instead of herby ranch, you can try a tahini or a lemon-garlic dressing to mix things up.
- Grain-Free Option: Use lettuce leaves instead of pitas for a low-carb wrap option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they might take a bit longer to cook.
Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the herby ranch slaw a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator in a sealed container, but add the cabbage the day you plan to serve it for the best crunch.
What are some good side dishes to serve with these pitas?
A light cucumber salad or some roasted sweet potatoes would complement the chicken pitas beautifully and round out the meal nicely.
With this easy and comforting Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas recipe in your culinary repertoire, busy weeknight dinners just became a whole lot more enjoyable! So roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking , dinner is just around the corner!