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Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Recipe

4.9 from 153 reviews

Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious dinner that combines marinated and roasted chicken thighs or breasts with colorful vegetables. Served with a creamy homemade herby ranch dressing and warm pita bread, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prep. The sheet pan method ensures minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, delivering juicy chicken and caramelized vegetables in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken & Vegetables:

  • lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for veggies)
  • Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
  • 1½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Herby Ranch Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp buttermilk (or milk + lemon juice as a sub)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
  • 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
  • 1 tsp lemon juice or white vinegar
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

To Serve:

  • Warm pita or naan bread (4–6 rounds)
  • Diced cucumber
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • Extra fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, ground coriander, red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut large chicken breasts in half lengthwise or into strips for even cooking; thighs can be left whole or halved. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours to let flavors infuse.
  3. Prep the Vegetables: Thinly slice red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini (if using). In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with 1 tablespoon olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper to season lightly.
  4. Roast the Chicken and Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup if desired. Spread the seasoned vegetables on one side of the sheet pan. Arrange the marinated chicken alongside or on top without overcrowding. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender and caramelized. For a golden finish, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
  5. Make the Herby Ranch Dressing: While the chicken roasts, combine mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and buttermilk in a bowl or small food processor. Blend until smooth. Stir in fresh parsley, dill, chives (or green onions), grated garlic, lemon juice or vinegar, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to chill and meld flavors.
  6. Warm the Pitas: Wrap pitas or naan bread in aluminum foil and warm in the oven during the last 5 minutes of roasting. Alternatively, warm them individually on a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for slight charring.
  7. Assemble the Chicken Pitas: Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and slice into thin strips or bite-sized chunks. Fill warm pita bread with a generous layer of roasted vegetables, topped with sliced chicken. Add diced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle liberally with herby ranch dressing, and optionally sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh herbs. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Meal Prep: Store chicken and vegetables separately from the herby ranch dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Make it Spicy: Add hot sauce or extra crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or ranch for a spicy kick.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pita or serve the components in bowls over rice or salad greens.
  • Vegetarian Variation: Replace chicken with chickpeas, cauliflower florets, or grilled halloumi; adjust seasoning and roasting time accordingly.
  • Short on Time: Use rotisserie chicken tossed with the marinade spices as a quick alternative.
  • Broil Finish: Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning and achieve a nice char.
  • Serving Suggestions: Add sliced avocado, pickled onions, kalamata olives, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.

Keywords: sheet pan chicken pitas, chicken marinade, herby ranch dressing, roasted vegetables, easy dinner, weeknight meal, healthy chicken recipe, Mediterranean chicken, pita sandwich