Pulled Chicken Pita from Nando's features tender, spicy grilled chicken marinated in peri-peri sauce, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and creamy garlic sauce, all wrapped in a warm, soft pita bread for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Equipments
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
- Serving Plate
- Aluminum Foil (optional, for keeping pita warm)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup peri-peri sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 cup creamy garlic sauce
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tender, juicy meat that absorbs the peri-peri marinade well. Fresh, ripe tomatoes contribute to the pita's vibrant flavor and balance the spiciness of the peri-peri sauce. Opt for warm, soft pita bread to wrap the ingredients, ensuring each bite is easy to handle and flavorful. The creamy garlic sauce should be smooth and rich, complementing the grilled chicken without overpowering it. Your homemade Pulled Chicken Pita from Nando's copycat menu will closely mimic the original's bold flavors and satisfying texture when you select these key ingredients carefully.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs, peri-peri sauce, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Cover and marinate chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill marinated chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove chicken from grill; let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice chicken into strips on a cutting board.
- Warm pita breads on grill or in foil, if desired.
- Slice tomatoes into thin rounds.
- To assemble, lay out each pita on a serving plate.
- Add a layer of shredded lettuce and tomato slices to each pita.
- Top with grilled chicken strips.
- Drizzle creamy garlic sauce over chicken.
- Fold or wrap pita around filling.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Pulled Chicken Pita from Nando's copycat menu offers a delicious combination of spicy peri-peri marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy garlic sauce, all wrapped in soft pita bread. If peri-peri sauce is unavailable, you can substitute with a mix of hot sauce and smoked paprika to achieve a similar smoky heat. Chicken breasts can replace thighs for a leaner option, but adjusting cooking time to avoid dryness is essential. Using aluminum foil to keep the pita warm before serving helps maintain texture and flavor. Your choice of lettuce and tomatoes can be varied according to freshness and preference without compromising the dish's overall taste.
Tips
Ensure the chicken thighs are evenly coated with peri-peri sauce to maximize flavor absorption during marination. Grill the chicken at medium-high heat to achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and slight char without drying it out. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and juicy when sliced. Warm your pita breads just before serving to make them soft and pliable, preventing them from tearing while wrapping.
Nutritions
Pulled Chicken Pita from Nando's offers a balanced combination of protein-rich chicken thighs and essential vitamins from fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes. The peri-peri sauce adds a flavorful kick with antioxidants from chili peppers, while the creamy garlic sauce contributes healthy fats and a savory taste. Wrapped in soft pita bread, this meal provides a good source of carbohydrates to fuel your day. You can enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal that supports muscle repair and overall energy.
Storage
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the pita bread separately wrapped in foil or a resealable bag to maintain its softness and prevent it from drying out. When reheating, gently warm the chicken on a grill or pan to preserve its flavor, and warm the pita bread separately for the best texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, grilling them slightly less time to avoid drying out. Experiment with adding grilled bell peppers or red onions to the filling for extra crunch and sweetness. Swap creamy garlic sauce with a tangy yogurt-based sauce containing cucumber and mint for a refreshing twist. Consider warming the pita bread wrapped in aluminum foil to retain softness while keeping it hot for serving.
Allergies
Pulled Chicken Pita from Nando's may trigger allergies due to common allergens such as garlic in the creamy garlic sauce and wheat in the pita bread. The peri-peri sauce could contain spices that some individuals might be sensitive to, while the chicken is typically safe unless there is a poultry-specific allergy. Be sure to check the ingredient list carefully if you have allergies to wheat, garlic, or certain spices.
Why this recipe?
Pulled Chicken Pita from Nando's is a popular choice due to its tender, flavorful chicken marinated with peri-peri spices, creating a perfect balance of heat and zest. The pita bread adds a soft texture that complements the juicy, smoky chicken, making every bite satisfying and wholesome. You will appreciate the combination of fresh vegetables and creamy sauces that enhance the overall taste experience, making it a unique and delicious meal. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to recreate this tasty dish at home, ensuring you enjoy the signature Nando's flavor anytime at your convenience.