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
- 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 dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup 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
- 2-3 pitas
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425º F, preferably using the convection setting for even cooking and better caramelization.
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, kosher salt, and olive oil. Toss to fully coat the chicken evenly. Add the lemon slices and gently toss again to distribute the lemon flavor.
- Arrange Chicken on Sheet Pan: Spread the seasoned chicken evenly on a sheet pan, making sure not to overcrowd the pan so the chicken can cook evenly and crisp up.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the pan, toss the chicken pieces to promote even cooking, and return it to the oven for an additional 4 to 7 minutes until the chicken is crisp and caramelized on the edges.
- Make Herby Ranch Slaw: While the chicken is baking, mix together the plain yogurt, chopped dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Add the shredded cabbage and toss thoroughly to coat the cabbage with the herb dressing. Let the slaw sit for 10 to 15 minutes to soften and develop flavor.
- Warm Pitas: Warm the pitas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until soft and pliable.
- Assemble Pitas: Fill each warmed pita with a generous amount of herby ranch slaw, the baked chicken pieces, and cubed ripe avocado. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use convection mode if available to get crispier chicken pieces quicker.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
- Letting the slaw sit before serving helps mellow the cabbage and blend the flavors.
- Avocado adds creaminess and balances the spices, but can be omitted if desired.
- For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy yogurt alternative in the slaw.
- Pita bread can be replaced with flatbreads or wraps if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
