Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta

Are you ready to enjoy a dish that’s both crispy, savory, and bursting with flavor? Let me introduce you to Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta! This recipe is a total game-changer when it comes to easy and delicious meals. The crispy pita provides the perfect crunchy base, while the tender chicken and tangy feta cheese bring layers of rich flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing. It’s like comfort food with a Mediterranean twist, and trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

What’s even better? It’s simple to make, and you can have this dish on your table in no time. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or looking for an appetizer that will impress your guests, this one checks all the boxes. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta

Quick & Easy

Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s simple and quick to make? With just a few steps, you can have this dish ready in less than 30 minutes! It’s the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you need something satisfying with minimal effort.

Crispy & Delicious

The crispy pita serves as a perfect contrast to the tender, juicy chicken. Paired with creamy feta, each bite is a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. You’ll love the crunch of the pita and the freshness that the toppings bring.

Fresh Ingredients, Big Flavor

Using fresh chicken, pita, and feta cheese, this recipe delivers big on flavor without being too heavy. The Mediterranean-inspired combo of ingredients is light yet satisfying, making it ideal for a balanced meal.

Customizable

Love olives? Throw some on top! Prefer a different cheese? Swap out feta for goat cheese or mozzarella. This recipe is super flexible and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients

For Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta, here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best. It’s lean, juicy, and absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
• Pita Bread: Use whole wheat or white pita, depending on your preference. These will be crisped up for that perfect crunch.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives the dish a creamy, tangy flavor that balances the savory chicken perfectly.
• Olive Oil: To lightly drizzle over the pita and chicken before cooking, ensuring everything crisps up beautifully.
• Garlic Powder: A must-have for that savory flavor that complements the chicken and feta.
• Oregano: A staple herb in Mediterranean cooking that adds earthy flavor to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a refreshing zing to the chicken and helps bring all the flavors together.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh finish and color to the dish (optional).
• Cucumber & Tomato: For a quick, fresh garnish on top. You could also add some red onion or olives if you’d like!

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on creating this crispy, savory delight!

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breast with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings in so the chicken is well-coated. Then, cook the chicken on medium-high heat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 2: Crisp the Pita

While the chicken is resting, take your pita bread and cut it into halves or quarters, depending on your preference. Brush each piece lightly with olive oil, then place it in a hot skillet or oven to toast. If using the skillet, cook the pita on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and crispy. If using the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and bake the pita for about 5-7 minutes, checking to make sure it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Once your pita is crispy and your chicken is sliced, it’s time to put it all together! Place the crispy pita pieces on a serving plate. Top with sliced chicken, crumbled feta, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley, diced cucumber, and tomato for a fresh crunch.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately while the pita is still crispy and the chicken is warm. Pair this dish with a simple side salad or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying meal!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 70mg
  Sodium: 760mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 33g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
  Protein: 38g
  Vitamin D: 0mcg
  Calcium: 160mg
  Iron: 2.2mg
  Potassium: 820mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta

As a Main Course

This dish makes a perfect light dinner or lunch. The combination of chicken, feta, and pita offers just the right balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats to fill you up without feeling heavy.

As an Appetizer

Cut the pita into smaller triangles and serve with a refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip or a spicy tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.

With a Side Salad

Pair this dish with a simple salad, such as a Greek salad with Kalamata olives, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion, to complement the Mediterranean flavors.

Additional Tips

Don’t Skip the Resting Time for the Chicken

Letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures that the juices stay inside and the meat stays tender. It also helps prevent any tough or dry spots when slicing.

Use Fresh Pita for Extra Softness

If you’re craving a more pillowy texture, use fresh, soft pita. This will give you more of a chewy bite while still getting the crispy edges when toasted.

Add Extra Veggies

Feel free to pile on extra veggies! Olives, bell peppers, or arugula can all be wonderful additions to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

Experiment with Different Cheeses

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can swap it out for goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Make It Spicy

For those who love a little heat, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce on top to give the dish a spicy kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought cooked chicken?
A1: Yes! To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breast from the store. Just shred or slice it before adding it to the pita.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: While the pita is best when it’s crispy, you can prep the chicken and toppings ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble when you’re ready to eat.

Q3: Can I use a different type of bread?
A3: Absolutely! You can use naan, flatbread, or even toasted baguette slices if you prefer a different kind of bread. The key is getting it crispy for that perfect texture.

Q4: Can I freeze the pita?
A4: You can freeze the crispy pita, but it may lose some of its crunch after reheating. To re-crisp, bake it in the oven or toast it in a skillet.

Q5: Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
A5: Yes! You can swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Q6: How can I add more flavor to the pita?
A6: Brush the pita with a bit of garlic butter or a sprinkle of oregano before toasting it for extra flavor.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store the chicken and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, just toast the pita and warm the chicken.

Q8: Can I make this gluten-free?
A8: Yes! Use gluten-free pita or any other gluten-free flatbread option. You can also use gluten-free wraps or tortillas.

Q9: How do I keep the pita from getting soggy?
A9: To keep the pita crispy, assemble the dish just before serving. If you need to store leftovers, keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to eat.

Q10: Can I add more vegetables?
A10: Absolutely! Adding grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can add a nice touch of color and flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

This Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta is everything you want in a meal: simple, flavorful, and satisfying. The crispy pita, juicy chicken, and tangy feta come together to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it for dinner, as an appetizer, or just because you’re craving something tasty, this recipe will not disappoint. Go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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