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Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw Recipe

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4 from 13 reviews

These Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas feature oven-baked, caramelized chicken pieces seasoned with smoky spices and brown sugar, paired with a creamy, herbaceous ranch-style cabbage slaw made from fresh herbs and yogurt. Served stuffed in warm pitas with ripe avocado, this recipe offers a light, healthy, and flavorful summer meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings

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 pepper
  • 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 fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh 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

To Serve

  • 2-3 pitas
  • 1 ripe avocado, cubed

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 425ºF (220ºC), preferably using convection mode to ensure even cooking and caramelization for the chicken.
  2. Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, kosher salt, and olive oil. Add the lemon slices and toss everything thoroughly to evenly coat the chicken.
  3. Bake the chicken: Spread the seasoned chicken evenly on a sheet pan, making sure pieces are not crowded. Bake for 15 minutes, then toss the chicken to promote even browning. Continue baking for an additional 4-7 minutes until the chicken is crisp on the edges and caramelized.
  4. Make the herby ranch slaw: While chicken bakes, mix the yogurt, chopped dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Add the shredded green cabbage and toss well to coat. Allow the slaw to sit for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld and soften the cabbage slightly.
  5. Warm the pitas and assemble: Heat the pitas briefly in the microwave until warm and pliable. Stuff each pita with a generous portion of slaw, baked chicken pieces, and cubed avocado. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute plain yogurt with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level.
  • Convection mode on the oven helps achieve better caramelization but is optional.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before baking if time allows.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reused in wraps or salads.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat