Name: Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 500 g ground chicken; 100 g feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying and brushing); 4 pita breads

Why You’ll Love Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta Recipe

This recipe delivers bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors using simple, wholesome ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, tangy feta, and fragrant herbs creates a filling that’s both fresh and savory.

You’ll love how the pita turns perfectly crispy on the outside while staying soft enough to hold the juicy filling inside. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and ideal for both family meals and casual gatherings. Plus, it pairs beautifully with dips, salads, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the filling
ground chicken
feta cheese, crumbled
red onion, finely chopped
garlic, minced
lemon juice
lemon zest
fresh mint, chopped
fresh parsley, chopped
salt
black pepper

For assembling and cooking
pita bread
olive oil

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta, red onion, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, mint, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
Cut each pita in half to form pockets. Gently open each pocket without tearing the bread.
Spoon the chicken mixture into each pita half, pressing lightly so the filling spreads evenly inside. Avoid overfilling to prevent splitting during cooking.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the stuffed pitas in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Make sure the chicken cooks through completely.
For extra crispiness, transfer the browned pitas to a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 stuffed pita halves
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30 to 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian option
Replace the ground chicken with seasoned lentils, sautéed mushrooms, or a mixture of spinach and chickpeas for a hearty plant-based version.

Spicy twist
Add crushed red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a spoonful of harissa to the filling for extra heat.

Cheese swap
Try goat cheese or ricotta for a slightly different creamy texture and flavor profile.

Herb variation
Swap mint for fresh basil or cilantro to give the dish a new flavor direction.

Baked-only method
Skip pan-frying and brush the outside of the stuffed pitas lightly with olive oil, then bake until golden and crisp.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stuffed pitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. An air fryer also works well for restoring crunch.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pita soft rather than crispy. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and finish in a skillet for better texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works very well and provides a similar texture and flavor.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The filling should no longer appear pink in the center.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

What type of pita works best?

Thick, sturdy pita bread holds up best during stuffing and frying without tearing.

Can I freeze the stuffed pitas?

Yes, you can freeze them after cooking. Let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the pita from getting soggy?

Avoid overfilling and cook over medium heat so the exterior crisps properly without burning.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely. Finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or grated zucchini make great additions.

What sauces pair well with this recipe?

Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, hummus, or a simple lemon tahini sauce all complement the flavors beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store cooked pitas separately and reheat when ready to eat.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative. The herbs and lemon still provide plenty of flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together bold flavors and irresistible texture. With its golden, crunchy exterior and savory, herb-packed filling, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served for dinner, lunch, or as a shareable appetizer, it’s a satisfying and versatile option that fits perfectly into any meal plan.

Crispy Pita with Chicken & Feta