There’s something magical about the way a warm pita wraps around juicy chicken and crisp veggies, don’t you think? I can still remember the first time I made Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw for my family. It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I decided to whip up something light and fresh. As I pulled the chicken off the grill, the aroma wafted through the kitchen and drew everyone in like a moth to a flame. My kids couldn’t wait to dig in, and their laughter filled the air as they built their own pitas with all the fixings.

This recipe has since become a staple in our home, especially during the warmer months when we crave something refreshing yet filling. The combination of the herby ranch slaw brightens up the dish, making it perfect for picnics, backyard barbecues, or just a cozy family dinner. Plus, it’s super quick to prepare, which is always a win in my book. Trust me, once you try these Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw, they’ll be on your regular rotation too!

Why You’ll Love "Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw"

Quick prep and cook time – you can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes!
Minimal ingredients – simple and fresh flavors that are easy to find.
Family-friendly – everyone can customize their own pitas to suit their tastes.
Perfect for warm weather – light and refreshing, great for picnics or barbecues.
Leftover friendly – use any extra chicken in salads or wraps for lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken and Seasoning

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound) – look for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
2 teaspoons olive oil – extra virgin is my favorite for its rich taste.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – this adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but fresh minced garlic works too if you prefer.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – adjust to taste, but don't skip it; it enhances the chicken's natural flavor.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – freshly ground gives the best flavor, but pre-ground will work in a pinch.

Slaw Ingredients

1 ½ cups shredded green cabbage – you can buy pre-shredded at the store or shred your own for a fresh crunch.
½ cup shredded carrot – pre-shredded is convenient, but fresh carrots shredded at home taste even better.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill – this herb brings a bright flavor; if you don't have dill, try fresh cilantro instead.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley – it adds a nice color and flavor; flat-leaf parsley is best for this recipe.
½ cup ranch dressing – feel free to use your favorite brand, or make a homemade version if you're feeling adventurous!

Pita Breads

4 pita breads – look for whole wheat or pita that’s soft and pliable; they warm up beautifully for easy assembly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Grill or Skillet

Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. You want it nice and hot to get that perfect sear on the chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

While the grill heats up, grab your chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This will be your delicious marinade.
Rub the olive oil mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re evenly coated. This step is crucial for flavor!

Cook the Chicken

Once your grill or skillet is preheated, carefully place the chicken breasts on it.
Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side. You should see nice grill marks forming.
Flip the chicken over and cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This is super important for safety!
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy.

Make the Herby Ranch Slaw

While the chicken is resting, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrot.
Add in the chopped fresh dill and parsley, and mix everything together until it’s well combined.
Pour in the ranch dressing and gently toss the slaw until all the veggies are coated. It should look bright and fresh!

Warm the Pita

Now it’s time to warm up the pita breads. You can do this in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or place them in a dry skillet over low heat for a minute or two.
Just a quick warm-up will make them soft and pliable, perfect for stuffing!

Assemble the Pitas

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips.
Take a warm pita and fill it with a few slices of chicken.
Top it generously with the herby ranch slaw, letting it spill over the sides a bit because that’s the best part!
Repeat with the remaining pitas until everyone has their own delicious creation.
Enjoy your Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw fresh and warm!

Variations

Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Add sliced avocado or diced cucumbers for extra crunch and creaminess.
Try using red cabbage for a colorful twist on the slaw.
Make it dairy-free by using a dairy-free ranch dressing.
Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples or mango for a sweet contrast.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw warm for the best flavor. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to set out extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling!

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat and serve in fresh pita breads to maintain that soft texture.

Helpful Notes

For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
Use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs as a healthier ranch alternative.
Feel free to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
If you're avoiding gluten, make sure to choose gluten-free pita breads.
Add some sliced olives or jalapeños to the slaw for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately from the slaw. Just make sure to wrap the chicken tightly to prevent freezer burn. The slaw is best enjoyed fresh.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing?

You can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a healthier alternative, or try making your own dressing with sour cream and spices. A vinaigrette also makes a great option!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pita breads and ensure that all other ingredients, like the ranch dressing, are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use different vegetables in the slaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any crunchy vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli slaw, or even thinly sliced radishes for a bit of zing.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep the chicken and slaw separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Final Thoughts

Cooking is all about sharing joy and creating memories, and I truly hope you give these Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw a try. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience that brings everyone together around the table. I can already picture the smiles as you all dig into these delicious pitas. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a delightful feast. Remember, cooking should be fun and a little messy, so don’t stress! Enjoy every bite, and I can't wait for you to tell me how much you loved them!

Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Slaw

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious chicken pita filled with herby ranch slaw.

Instructions

Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat.
Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Grill or cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
Remove chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, dill, and parsley.
Add ranch dressing to the slaw and mix well.
Warm pita breads in a skillet or microwave.
Fill each pita with sliced chicken and top with herby ranch slaw.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to taste.
Use leftover chicken for salads or wraps.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling or Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pita
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Chicken Pitas, Herby Ranch Slaw, Easy Recipe