Save Experience the bright and refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean with these Light Greek Chicken Pita Pockets. This dish features tender, herb-marinated grilled chicken tucked into soft pita bread, complemented by a crisp cucumber and tomato salad and a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. It is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and high-protein meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
Save Whether you are looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a light lunch, these pita pockets are incredibly versatile. The combination of warm bread, savory chicken, and cool yogurt sauce creates a satisfying contrast in every bite.
Ingredients
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
- 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
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (low-fat or nonfat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 whole wheat pita breads (or regular)
- 1 cup shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
- Optional: extra lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- 1. 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.
- 2. 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.
- 3. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
- 4. 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.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best results, use a grill pan or skillet to get a nice sear on the chicken. Be sure to use a cutting board and sharp knife for uniform dicing of the vegetables, and let the chicken rest before slicing to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For different dietary needs, you can substitute turkey or tofu for the chicken. Whole wheat pitas provide extra fiber, but gluten-free pitas can be used if necessary. Always check labels for potential allergens like dairy in the yogurt or wheat in the bread.
Serviervorschläge
Enhance the Mediterranean experience by adding crumbled feta cheese or sliced Kalamata olives to the salad. Serving the pockets with extra lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add an extra splash of citrus to their meal.
Save Enjoy these Light Greek Chicken Pita Pockets as a wholesome and delicious meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Cook and slice the chicken beforehand, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling the pitas.
- → What can I use instead of pita bread?
You can substitute naan bread, flatbread, or even wrap it in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Tortillas work well too if you prefer burrito-style wraps.
- → Is the yogurt sauce similar to tzatziki?
It's a simplified version of tzatziki without grated cucumber. The combination of Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon, and garlic gives you that classic tangy Mediterranean flavor.
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the Greek yogurt sauce with dairy-free yogurt made from coconut or almond milk. You can also use hummus or tahini sauce as a delicious alternative topping.
- → What vegetables work well in the salad?
Beyond tomatoes and cucumber, you can add bell peppers, radishes, or shredded carrots. Fresh herbs like mint or basil can complement or replace the parsley for different flavor notes.
- → How do I prevent pita pockets from tearing?
Warm the pitas slightly first to make them more pliable. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut them in half. Don't overstuff—layer ingredients gently to avoid splitting the bread.