Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch is a delightful meal that combines juicy roasted chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce all wrapped in soft pita bread. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner, an easy weeknight meal, or a fun meal prep idea. With minimal clean-up thanks to the use of just one sheet pan, this recipe offers convenience without compromising flavor. The bright and fresh ingredients make it enjoyable for everyone at the table. You will love how simple yet satisfying this meal is, and it guarantees to become a family favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to enjoy Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch. First, it suits busy lifestyles. In just under an hour, you can prep and cook a delicious homemade dish. The ease of a sheet pan meal means less time cleaning up afterward, allowing you to spend more time with your family or friends.

Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your personal tastes. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the cayenne pepper. If you love herbs, feel free to add more fresh dill or parsley.

This recipe also packs a nutritional punch. The chicken provides protein, while the fresh veggies give essential vitamins and minerals. With avocado and yogurt, you add healthy fats, making this dish a well-rounded option for lunch or dinner.

A Flavorful Experience

The combination of spices, herbs, and fresh produce creates a symphony of flavor in every bite. The sweetness from the brown sugar on the chicken balances perfectly with the tangy yogurt and the freshness of the herbs. Plus, the addition of lemon adds brightness that elevates the entire dish.

So, if you are looking for an easy, healthy, and tasty meal, you should definitely try making Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch. Your taste buds will thank you!

How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

Making Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Below are all the details you need to create this delicious meal.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ lemon, sliced
• ½ cup plain yogurt (or a non-dairy alternative)
• ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, minced
• Juice from ½ lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Kosher salt to taste
• ½ small head green cabbage, shredded
• 2–3 pitas
• 1 ripe avocado, cubed

Directions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). This ensures that the chicken will roast properly.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chicken pieces with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and olive oil. Stir everything until the chicken is well coated. After that, add the lemon slices and mix again.

3. Roast the Chicken: Spread the chicken and lemon slices out on a sheet pan in a single layer. This allows for even cooking. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, take the pan out, toss the chicken and return it to the oven for an additional 4-7 minutes. You want the chicken to be caramelized and cooked through.

4. Make the Slaw: While the chicken is roasting, prepare the slaw. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and kosher salt. Once well mixed, fold in the shredded cabbage. Let this sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Warm the Pitas: When the chicken is done roasting, warm the pitas in the oven or on a skillet until soft and pliable.

6. Assemble the Dish: To serve, fill each pita with the slaw, add a generous portion of the roasted chicken, and top with cubed avocado.

7. Enjoy: Serve everything warm and enjoy your homemade Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

Serving Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch is easy and fun. You can present them on a large platter for everyone to build their own pitas. This creates a relaxed and interactive dining experience. Place the warmed pitas, slaw, roasted chicken, and avocado in small bowls along with optional toppings like additional herbs, salsa, or hot sauce.

If you are hosting a dinner or gathering, consider pairing these pitas with a refreshing side salad or some cucumber yogurt dip to complete the meal. A light dessert, like fruit salad or sorbet, would also be a perfect ending to this delicious meal.

How to Store Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is quite simple. Allow the chicken and slaw to cool down completely. Place them in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the pitas separate, as they can get soggy if stored together with the filling.

Properly stored, the roasted chicken will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Slaw should also keep well for similar durations. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until it’s hot. For the slaw, you may want to give it a quick stir before serving.

Tips to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Marinate for More Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for about an hour or overnight. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.

• Cut Chicken Evenly: Make sure the chicken pieces are cut evenly to ensure they cook through at the same rate.

• Baking Sheet: Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any juices while cooking. This makes cleaning up easier.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the spice blend. Add your favorite spices or reduce the heat according to your preference.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and quality chicken can really elevate the flavor of the dish.

Variation

If you want to try something different, you can swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Both alternatives will work well with the spices and slaw. You can also change the slaw ingredients by adding grated carrots, red cabbage, or even apples for a sweet crunch. Using whole wheat or gluten-free pitas is also an option for those with dietary restrictions.

FAQs

Can I make these pitas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and slaw in advance. Store them in the fridge, and when you are ready to serve, simply warm up the chicken and assemble your pitas.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Absolutely! The roasted chicken can be frozen in an airtight container. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. It’s best to consume it within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

What can I use besides yogurt in the slaw?

If you want a dairy-free or lower-calorie option, consider using a vegan yogurt or mixing in mashed avocado for creaminess. You can also use a simple vinaigrette for a lighter slaw.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done cooking when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (75ºC). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through the center.

By following this guide, you can create delightful Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch with ease. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch

A delightful meal combining juicy roasted chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce wrapped in soft pita bread. Perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Healthy

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Roasted Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp brown sugar enhances sweetness
• 1.5 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper for heat
• 0.5 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 lemon, sliced for roasting

For the Slaw

• 0.5 cup plain yogurt (or a non-dairy alternative) adds creaminess
• 0.25 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, minced
• 0.5 lemon juice from half lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Kosher salt to taste
• 0.5 small head green cabbage, shredded

For Assembly

• 2–3 pitas can use whole wheat or gluten-free
• 1 ripe avocado, cubed for topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and olive oil until the chicken is well coated, then add the lemon slices.

Cooking

1. Spread the chicken and lemon slices on a sheet pan in a single layer and roast for 15 minutes.
2. After 15 minutes, toss the chicken and return to the oven for an additional 4-7 minutes, until caramelized and cooked through.

Make the Slaw

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and kosher salt.
2. Fold in shredded cabbage and let sit for 10-15 minutes for flavors to meld.

Warm the Pitas

1. Warm the pitas in the oven or on a skillet until soft.

Assembly

1. Fill each pita with slaw, add roasted chicken, and top with cubed avocado.

Enjoy

1. Serve everything warm and enjoy your homemade Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch!

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for 1 hour or overnight. Store leftovers separately; chicken and slaw can last about 3-4 days in the fridge.