Dinner

Chicken Fattoush Recipe

Name: Chicken Fattoush Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: Juice of 2 lemons; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 Cos lettuce, chopped; 2 tomatoes, chopped into chunks; Small pack flat-leaf parsley, chopped; ½ cucumber, chopped into chunks; 200g cooked chicken pieces (or leftover cooked chicken); 2 spring onions, sliced; 2 pitta breads; 1-2 tsp ground sumac

ByEthan Lark November 3, 2025November 3, 2025

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Introduction

Chicken fattoush is a vibrant Middle Eastern salad bursting with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and crispy toasted pita. Its tangy lemon dressing and fragrant sumac make it a refreshing and satisfying meal, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

A white oval plate filled with a fresh salad arranged in layers: the bottom layer is made of green lettuce leaves, followed by chopped red tomatoes and cucumber pieces. On top, there are sliced cooked chicken breast pieces, lightly sprinkled with a red spice. Scattered among the layers are chunks of light brown toasted pita bread. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a silver fork and spoon partially under the plate on the right side, and part of a clear drinking glass is visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Juice of 2 lemons
2 tbsp olive oil
1 Cos lettuce, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped into chunks
Small pack flat-leaf parsley, chopped
½ cucumber, chopped into chunks
200g pack cooked chicken pieces (or leftover cooked chicken)
2 spring onions, sliced
2 pitta breads
1-2 tsp ground sumac

Instructions

Step 1: Pour the lemon juice into a large bowl and whisk while slowly adding the olive oil. Once all the oil is incorporated and the mixture starts to thicken, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Add the chopped lettuce, tomatoes, parsley, cucumber, cooked chicken pieces, and spring onions to the bowl. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
Step 3: Toast the pitta breads in a toaster until they are crisp and golden. Break or chop the toasted pitta into bite-sized chunks.
Step 4: Scatter the toasted pitta chunks over the salad and sprinkle with ground sumac. Serve the fattoush immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the pitas under a grill instead of using a toaster.
Swap cooked chicken for grilled halloumi or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to enhance the freshness.
If sumac is unavailable, substitute with a squeeze of extra lemon juice for tanginess.

Storage

Chicken fattoush is best enjoyed fresh, as the toasted pita can become soggy when stored. If needed, keep the salad and the toasted pitta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat the pitta in a toaster or oven before serving to restore crispness.

How to Serve

A white oval plate is filled with a fresh salad featuring several layers: the base is green lettuce leaves, followed by bright red tomato wedges and light green cucumber pieces scattered throughout. On top, there are thick slices of white cooked chicken breast, lightly seasoned with a sprinkle of dried herbs or spices. Chunks of light beige pita bread are spread around the plate, adding texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a woman's hand holding a fork resting on the right side of the plate near a clear glass of water. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?

It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure the salad stays fresh and ready to eat. If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

What is sumac and can I find it in any grocery store?

Sumac is a tangy, citrusy spice commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s often available in specialty or well-stocked grocery stores, or you can purchase it online.