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Fattet Djaj (Lebanese Chicken Fatteh with Yogurt and Chickpeas)

A beloved Lebanese comfort dish made of layered toasted pita, tender shredded chicken, creamy garlicky yogurt sauce, chickpeas, and golden pine nuts — this savory, warm-meets-cool recipe is all about texture and richness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large pita breads, cut into squares
  • Olive oil for toasting
  • 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups plain yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tahini (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss pita squares with olive oil, spread on a baking tray, and bake until crisp and golden, about 10–12 minutes.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm chickpeas with cumin, salt, and pepper. Add shredded chicken and stir until heated through. Set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, minced garlic, tahini (if using), lemon juice, and salt until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a small pan, toast pine nuts in butter or olive oil over low heat until golden brown. Remove from heat.
  5. To assemble: In a serving bowl or deep platter, layer the toasted pita chips as the base.
  6. Top with the warm chickpea-chicken mixture.
  7. Spoon the yogurt sauce generously over the top.
  8. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and chopped fresh parsley.
  9. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
  10. Serve immediately while the pita is still crispy.

Notes

  • Best served fresh to retain the crunch of the toasted pita.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
  • Tahini adds a nutty depth but can be omitted if preferred.
  • Can be served warm or at room temperature.
  • To make vegetarian, omit chicken and add more chickpeas or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: fatteh, chicken fatteh, fattet djaj, lebanese recipe, yogurt sauce, chickpeas, toasted pita