Roasted Turmeric Chicken Pitas with Garlic Lemon Tahini

Roasted Turmeric Chicken Pitas with Garlic Lemon Tahini are a bold, vibrant fusion of Middle Eastern-inspired flavors, perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The chicken is marinated in warming spices and roasted until golden, then tucked into warm pita bread with crisp vegetables and drizzled with a creamy, garlicky tahini sauce. Every bite is packed with color, flavor, and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly customizable. The turmeric-spiced chicken is aromatic and juicy, the garlic lemon tahini adds a tangy, nutty creaminess, and the crisp veggies bring it all together with freshness and crunch. It’s perfect for meal prep, healthy lunches, or a build-your-own pita night with family or friends.

ingredients

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

For the Roasted Turmeric Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Olive oil
• Ground turmeric
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the Garlic Lemon Tahini Sauce:

• Tahini
• Garlic (grated or finely minced)
• Lemon juice
• Warm water
• Salt

For Serving:

• Pita bread or flatbread
• Shredded lettuce or greens
• Sliced cucumber
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
• Crumbled feta (optional)

directions

this recipe

To Make the Chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, turmeric, cumin, paprika, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken in the marinade and let sit for 20–30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).
4. Spread chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred.

To Make the Tahini Sauce:

1. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and enough warm water to create a creamy, pourable sauce.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

To Assemble:

1. Warm the pita bread slightly to make it pliable.
2. Add a layer of greens, then top with chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
3. Drizzle generously with garlic lemon tahini sauce.
4. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and feta, if using.
5. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 pitas.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or chili flakes to the chicken marinade.
• Vegan Option: Use roasted chickpeas or tofu in place of chicken.
• Low-Carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or bowls instead of pitas.
• Sweet Touch: Add a bit of honey or pomegranate molasses to the tahini sauce.
• Grilled Version: Grill the chicken for added char and smoky flavor.

storage/reheating

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Tahini sauce can be stored in a sealed jar for up to 1 week in the fridge.
Assemble pitas just before serving for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well—just be sure not to overcook to keep them juicy.

What is tahini?

Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It has a creamy texture and nutty flavor, commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking.

How can I thin out tahini sauce?

Add warm water a little at a time while whisking until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken and prep the sauce and veggies ahead. Assemble fresh for best results.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita or serve as a bowl to make it gluten-free.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What sides go well with this?

Serve with hummus, tabbouleh, roasted veggies, or a lemony couscous salad.

Can I use store-bought pita?

Absolutely! Warm them briefly before serving for best texture.

Is the turmeric flavor strong?

Turmeric adds warmth and color but is balanced by the other spices and lemon—it’s not overpowering.

What herbs work best?

Fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint all pair beautifully with the lemony, savory flavors.

Conclusion

Roasted Turmeric Chicken Pitas with Garlic Lemon Tahini are a delicious, nutritious, and stunningly simple meal packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or entertaining, these pitas are sure to impress—and they’re easy enough to enjoy any day of the week.

Print