Crispy Chicken Pitas with Tzatziki
These crispy chicken pitas combine golden-crusted chicken with cool, garlicky tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and warm pita bread. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired street-food style wrap that’s perfect for a quick dinner, lunch, or party meal. The contrast of crunchy chicken and creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken
2 large chicken breasts (sliced into strips or cutlets)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
Olive oil or cooking spray (for pan-frying or baking)
For the Tzatziki Sauce
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, finely chopped
Salt & black pepper to taste
For Assembly
4 pita breads (or naan/flatbreads)
1 cup lettuce or arugula
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Kalamata olives
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1 – Make the Tzatziki
Mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill/mint, salt, and pepper.
Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let flavors blend.
Step 2– Prepare the Chicken
Set up a breading station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, one with panko + Parmesan + seasonings.
Coat chicken strips in flour, dip into egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
Pan-fry in olive oil for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through OR bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until crispy.
Step 3 – Warm the Pita
Heat pitas in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
Step 4 – Assemble
Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki on each pita.
Add lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and crispy chicken strips.
Sprinkle with feta and olives if desired.
Drizzle more tzatziki on top and fold/wrap.
Notes & Tips
Air Fryer Option: Cook breaded chicken at 200°C (390°F) for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make-Ahead: Tzatziki keeps for 2–3 days in the fridge. Chicken is best fresh, but you can reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Extra Crunch: Add shredded cabbage or cucumbers for texture.
Lighter Version: Grill or roast chicken instead of breading and frying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
A: Yes, but homemade gives fresher flavor.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken?
A: Yes, try crispy chickpeas or falafel for a vegetarian version.
Q: What’s the best side dish with these pitas?
A: Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple couscous tabbouleh.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 34 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 5 g
Sodium: 780 mg