Craving a taste of Portugal that you can whip up in just 35 minutes? Look no further than the tantalizing Nando's Fino Chicken Pitta! This mouthwatering recipe combines succulent grilled chicken marinated in zesty peri-peri sauce, nestled in warm pitta bread with fresh, crisp vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your culinary skills and indulge in a flavor explosion? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Portuguese
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp Nandos peri-peri sauce
- 2 pitta breads
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by thoroughly washing and patting dry the chicken breasts with paper towels.
- Marinate the chicken breasts by generously coating them with Nandos peri-peri sauce. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375-400°F).
- Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- While chicken is cooking, prepare the fresh vegetables by washing and finely shredding lettuce, slicing cucumber and tomatoes into thin, uniform pieces.
- Once chicken is cooked, remove from grill and let rest for 3-4 minutes to retain moisture. Slice the chicken breasts diagonally into thin strips.
- Warm the pitta breads briefly on the grill or in a toaster to create a soft, slightly crispy texture.
- Assemble the pitta by spreading mayonnaise inside the bread, then layering shredded lettuce, sliced cucumber, and tomatoes.
- Add the grilled chicken strips on top of the vegetables and fold the pitta bread.
- Slice the pitta diagonally and serve immediately while ingredients are fresh and warm.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t rush the marination process! Allow the chicken to soak in the Nandos peri-peri sauce for at least 15 minutes—this will infuse the meat with incredible flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe and juicy results.
- Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill properly. A medium-high heat (375-400°F) is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a delicious char.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest vegetables you can find for the best taste and texture. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers will elevate your pitta to the next level.
- Warm Your Pitta: A quick toast on the grill or in a toaster will give your pitta bread a delightful softness with a slight crispness—making it the perfect vessel for all those tasty fillings.
- Assemble with Care: When layering your pitta, start with mayonnaise to create a barrier that keeps the bread from getting soggy. Then, pile on the veggies and chicken for a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your pitta while it's warm and fresh! The combination of hot chicken and cool veggies creates a delightful contrast that you won’t want to miss.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 584kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 59g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 105mg
