Picnic Chicken Pitas
A quick, flavorful picnic chicken pita filled with seasoned shredded chicken, broccoli, cheese, and fresh tomato, perfect for a satisfying lunch or outdoor meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked and drained broccoli florets, shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped tomato.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, prepared mustard, salt, and pepper; pour over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Spoon about 3/4 cup of the mixture into each pita half.
- Top with bacon if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with a cheese of your choice, like pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you're looking to add more flavor, a dash of garlic powder or paprika can enhance the overall taste. This dish is versatile, allowing you to incorporate leftover veggies from your fridge as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken pitas with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with American recipes like Oven Parmesan Chicken for a complete spread. For added crunch, consider including potato chips or veggie sticks on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. It can also be served cold, making it a great option for packed lunches or picnics.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Chicken Pitas contains roughly 316 calories, with 12g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before adding it to the mixture. It may alter the texture slightly, but it will still create a tasty filling for the pitas.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pitas right before serving to keep the bread fresh. This is perfect for meal prep or planning a picnic.
What can I use instead of pitas?
If you don't have pitas, consider using tortillas or wraps as an alternative. You can also serve the chicken mixture over a bed of greens for a low-carb option. Experimenting with different bases can add variety to your meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).