Crunchy Pita Crusted Chicken

If you're in search of a delicious, satisfying, and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, look no further than Crunchy Pita Crusted Chicken. This innovative recipe takes the classic idea of breaded chicken and elevates it by using pita bread for the crust. The result is a delightful crunch that complements the juicy, tender chicken underneath, creating a dish that’s sure to impress both family members and guests alike.

Discover the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch of Crunchy Pita Crusted Chicken, a dish that will elevate your family dinners and impress your guests. This innovative recipe uses pita bread for a unique crust that contrasts wonderfully with juicy, tender chicken. Perfect for any occasion, it pairs beautifully with fresh salads, roasted veggies, or hearty sides. Try it out and indulge in a delicious twist on classic breaded chicken that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3 large pita breads (plain or whole wheat)

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture well to blend all the spices together.

Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to maximize flavor.

Create the crust: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Tear the pita bread into smaller pieces and place them in a food processor. Pulse until the pita is finely crumbled into crumbs.

Set up the dredging station: Set three shallow bowls on your counter. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, add the beaten eggs. In the third bowl, add the processed pita crumbs.

Coat the chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, ensuring it's coated evenly, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the pita crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well.

Prepare for baking: Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the top of each piece to allow for a golden, crunchy texture.

Bake the chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is crispy and golden brown. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) should be reached for safe consumption.

Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve your crunchy pita crusted chicken with a side of your favorite salad or dipping sauce.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr + 25 mins | 4 servings