Delicious Chicken Pita Wraps: A Quick Weeknight Dinner
Hey there! If you’re looking for a fun and super tasty meal that’s perfect for a weeknight, I’ve got just the recipe for you! These Chicken Pita Wraps are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and freshness. Honestly, this is one of those recipes I turn to when I want something delicious yet simple. Plus, it incorporates loads of vibrant veggies, and the homemade yogurt sauce? Total game changer!
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Pita Wraps
Now, let’s chat a bit about how healthy this meal can be! Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein which is essential for building muscle and maintaining a healthy metabolism. And we can’t forget those fresh veggies! The lettuce adds crunch and fiber, the tomatoes bring antioxidants, and red cabbage is a powerhouse with vitamins C and K. Plus, by using Greek yogurt in the sauce, you’re adding probiotics which are great for gut health. Isn’t that awesome?
Adaptable Variations for Everyone
- Make it Spicy: If you love a kick, go ahead and add more chili powder to the spice mix or even toss in some diced jalapeños!
- For a Low-Carb Option: Swap out the pita bread for larger lettuce leaves (like romaine or iceberg) to create a refreshing low-carb wrap.
- Vegetarian Style: Want to make this meatless? Try substituting the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu instead!
- Fresh Herbs to Change Up: Not a fan of cilantro? No problem! You can use fresh dill, mint, or parsley for a different flavor.
- Quick Meal Prep: Double the chicken and sauce to prep for your lunches later in the week!
Easy Chicken Pita Wrap Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red cabbage or red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 4 pita breads or flatbreads
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or cilantro)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Serves 4 people
- One pita wrap per person, filled with chicken, veggies, and yogurt sauce.
Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Let’s get that ready for some delicious roasting!
- In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder (if you’re feeling spicy), and some salt and pepper. Mix it all up!
- Now, toss the sliced chicken strips in the bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and that spice mixture. Make sure every piece is coated well.
- Spread the seasoned chicken out on a sheet pan in a single layer. You want it to roast evenly!
- Pop the chicken into the oven and roast it for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for that lovely char and ensure it’s cooked through.
- While the chicken is roasting, let’s whip up that yogurt sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and season with salt and pepper. Set it aside for the flavors to blend.
- Next up, chop up your fresh veggies: shred the lettuce, dice the tomato, and thinly slice the red cabbage or onion. Don’t forget to chop more fresh herbs for garnish!
- Warm your pita bread in the oven for just 2-3 minutes or toss them in a dry skillet until they’re soft and slightly toasted.
- Now, let’s assemble! Take each pita, layer it with the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cabbage/onion, and top it off with the roasted chicken strips.
- Generously drizzle that yummy yogurt sauce over everything and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top. Fold your pita, and voila!
Practical Tips
- Love leftovers? Store any extra wraps separately in the fridge. The chicken keeps well for up to 3 days!
- If you have leftover yogurt sauce, it works great as a veggie dip or a spread on sandwiches!
- Feel free to mix and match your veggies based on what you have in the fridge – it’s all about making this meal your own!
Equipment Needed
Before you get started, here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to make this recipe:
- A baking sheet (to roast the chicken)
- A mixing bowl (for the spice mix and yogurt sauce)
- A sharp knife and cutting board (to chop your veggies)
- A whisk or spoon (to mix the yogurt sauce)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cutting and seasoning.
- Is the yogurt sauce necessary? While it adds great flavor and creaminess, you can skip it if you prefer, or even use store-bought sauce!
- What if I don’t have a baking sheet? You could use a large oven-safe dish, just make sure it’s in a single layer for even cooking.
- Can this recipe be grilled instead? Totally! Grill the chicken on a barbecue for a smoky flavor. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out!
- How do I know when the chicken is done? Check that there’s no pink in the center and the juices run clear. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).
I hope you’re excited to dive into these Chicken Pita Wraps—they’re such a hit! I’d love to hear your thoughts on the recipe! Did you make any fun variations? Share your experiences and follow my journey on Pinterest for more yummy and simple recipes that you and your family will adore!
