Crispy Herbed Chicken Caesar Pitas

Indulge in a delightful fusion of textures and flavors with these Crispy Herbed Chicken Caesar Pitas. Succulent chicken breasts are coated in a fragrant herb and Parmesan crust, fried until golden and crisp, then paired with a fresh, creamy Caesar salad. Tucked into warm pita pockets, this meal offers a satisfying and sophisticated twist on a beloved classic that is perfect for both quick lunches and easy weeknight dinners.

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The secret to this dish lies in the herb-infused breading station, where dried oregano, basil, and fresh parsley create a complex profile that elevates the poultry. By slicing the chicken into thinner cutlets, you ensure a quick, even cook that keeps the meat juicy while the exterior achieves maximum crispiness.

Ingredients

• For the Herbed Chicken:
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Caesar Salad:
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/3 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• For Assembly:
• 4 large pita breads
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets (total 4 cutlets).

Step 2

Set up breading stations: Place flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk eggs with milk. In a third bowl, combine panko, grated Parmesan, parsley, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Coat each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg mixture, then press into the panko mixture until well coated.

Step 4

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cutlets and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5

Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or oven for 1–2 minutes until soft and flexible.

Step 6

Toss romaine, Caesar dressing, and shaved Parmesan (and cherry tomatoes, if using) in a bowl.

Step 7

Slice the crispy chicken into strips.

Step 8

Cut each pita in half to form pockets. Fill each pocket with Caesar salad, then add chicken strips.

Step 9

Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the breading stays on the chicken, press the panko mixture firmly into each cutlet. Maintain a consistent medium heat in the skillet; if the oil gets too hot, the breading will burn before the chicken is cooked through. Using tongs to flip the chicken helps prevent the coating from tearing.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter version, you can substitute the fried chicken with grilled chicken breasts. For extra richness and flavor, try adding sliced avocado or crispy bacon bits to the pita pockets. If you want to increase the fiber content, use whole-wheat pita bread instead of white.

Serviervorschläge

These pita sandwiches are best served immediately while the chicken is still hot and crunchy. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side to provide a bright, citrusy splash that cuts through the creamy Caesar dressing.

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Enjoy this satisfying combination of warm, herb-crusted chicken and cool, crisp salad for a meal that feels like a treat any day of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the breading from falling off the chicken?

Press the panko mixture firmly onto the chicken cutlets to ensure it adheres well. Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before cooking to help the coating set. Avoid moving the chicken too much while it sears in the skillet.

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, arrange the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Spray lightly with olive oil for better crisping.

→ What can I serve with these pitas?

These pitas are quite filling on their own, but you could serve them with roasted vegetables, a light soup, or extra Caesar salad on the side. Fruit also makes a nice contrasting side dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the chicken, salad components, and pitas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken stays crispy for about 2 days. Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven or toaster oven to restore crunch.

→ Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Absolutely. Store-bought Caesar dressing works perfectly and saves time. Choose your favorite brand or make a quick homemade version with mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, anchovy paste, and Parmesan.

→ What other toppings work well in these pitas?

Sliced avocado adds creaminess, while crispy bacon brings a smoky crunch. You could also add thinly sliced red onion, cucumber, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra kick.