Light Greek Chicken Pita

Transport yourself to the sunny Mediterranean with these Light Greek Chicken Pita Pockets. As you bite into the warm pita bread, you'll discover a perfect harmony of flavors – juicy grilled chicken seasoned with aromatic herbs, a refreshing cucumber tomato salad that bursts with freshness, and a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce that ties everything together. This Greek-inspired meal combines simplicity with incredible taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet satisfying.

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These pita pockets bring a piece of Greek cuisine right to your kitchen without requiring special ingredients or complicated techniques. The combination of herb-infused grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and cooling yogurt sauce creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will make this recipe a regular in your meal rotation. Plus, it's a wonderful way to introduce family members to Mediterranean flavors in a familiar, handheld format.

• For the Chicken: 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• For the Salad: 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 medium cucumber (diced), 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced), 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
• For the Yogurt Sauce: 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat or nonfat), 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped), 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 small garlic clove (finely grated), salt and pepper to taste
• For Assembly: 4 whole wheat pita breads (or regular), 1 cup shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce, optional lemon wedges for serving

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, tossing to coat. Marinate for at least 10 minutes (up to 1 hour for more flavor). Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Make the Salad

In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and set aside.

Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Pita Pockets

Warm pita breads slightly, then cut in half to form pockets. Layer each pocket with lettuce, sliced chicken, a generous spoonful of salad, and a dollop of yogurt sauce. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.

For the most flavorful chicken, allow it to marinate longer if you have time. The lemon juice not only adds bright flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. When grilling the chicken, resist the urge to move it around too much - letting it develop a nice sear on each side will enhance both texture and taste. For the yogurt sauce, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

This versatile recipe welcomes many adaptations to suit your preferences or pantry. Try using ground lamb instead of chicken for a more traditional Greek gyro flavor. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tempeh. If you're avoiding gluten, serve the filling over a bed of quinoa or wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of pita. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or mix a small amount of harissa into the yogurt sauce.

These Greek chicken pita pockets make a complete meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with a few complementary sides. Try serving them with a simple Greek salad, a small bowl of lemony soup, or crispy roasted potato wedges seasoned with oregano. For a casual gathering, arrange all components buffet-style and let guests assemble their own pockets. A chilled glass of crisp white wine or a light beer makes the perfect beverage pairing for this Mediterranean-inspired meal.

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As the flavors of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs meld together in these Greek chicken pita pockets, you'll appreciate how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. This dish embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking - fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and straightforward preparation. Whether you're preparing a quick family dinner or packing a nutritious lunch, these pita pockets deliver a taste of sunshine that's both nourishing and delightful. Every bite carries the casual elegance of Greek cuisine, proving that wholesome food can also be deeply satisfying.

Recipe FAQs

→ How should the chicken be prepared for best flavor?

Marinate the chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and cumin for at least 10 minutes to infuse bright, herbal flavors before grilling.

→ What type of pita works best for this dish?

Whole wheat pita adds fiber and a nuttier taste, but regular pita works well too. For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free pita bread.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the salad?

Yes, adding crumbled feta cheese or Kalamata olives complements the salad’s freshness and enhances the Mediterranean flair.

→ How is the yogurt sauce made?

Whisk together plain Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and pepper for a tangy, creamy sauce that balances the grilled chicken and salad.

→ Is there a way to make this meal suitable for different diets?

You can substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu to suit different preferences while keeping the vibrant flavors intact.