Za’atar Baked Pita Chips
Za’atar Baked Pita Chips offer a crispy, savory snack bursting with bold, aromatic flavors from the Middle Eastern za’atar spice blend. These easy-to-make chips are perfectly crunchy without the grease, making for a healthier alternative to fried snacks. Ideal on their own or paired with Mediterranean dips, they provide a satisfying crunch anytime.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- Pita bread – 2 large pieces (fresh or store-bought)
- Za’atar seasoning – 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Lemon zest (optional) – 1 teaspoon
Optional Variations
- Cayenne pepper or chili flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (for spicy twist)
- Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon (for garlic infusion)
- Whole wheat pita bread – substitute as preferred
- Extra sesame or flax seeds – 1 tablespoon (for topping)
- Nutritional yeast – 1 teaspoon (instead of lemon zest for cheesy flavor)
- Prep the Pita Bread: Cut fresh pita bread into small, evenly sized triangles or squares to ensure uniform baking. Separate pita pockets for thinner chips or keep them thicker for extra crunch.
- Mix the Za’atar Coating: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, za’atar seasoning, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. Add optional lemon zest or garlic powder at this stage if using.
- Toss Pita in the Za’atar Mixture: Add the pita pieces to the bowl and gently toss until each chip is thoroughly coated with the za’atar and olive oil mixture for consistent flavor.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the coated pita chips in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until golden and crisp, turning chips halfway to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove chips from oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling helps maintain their crispness, making them ready for snacking or dipping.
Notes
- Cut pita into uniform sizes to ensure even baking.
- Do not overcrowd baking sheet; arrange chips in a single layer for optimal crispness.
- Use fresh za’atar spice for the best flavor intensity.
- Watch baking time closely near the end to avoid burning.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers at room temperature to keep chips crunchy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Za'atar, pita chips, baked snack, Middle Eastern, appetizer, healthy snack, gluten free alternative