Name: Chicken Pitas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487144H28M5S
Total time: PT-487144H28M5S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 4 pita bread pockets; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 tomato, diced; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup lettuce, shredded; ¼ cup feta cheese (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon tahini (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Chicken Pitas is perfect for a busy day when you want something delicious yet easy to prepare. The tender chicken paired with the crunchy vegetables and tangy sauce makes each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, the pita bread serves as a convenient, handheld vessel for all these tasty ingredients, making it a great option for a casual meal or to pack for lunch. It’s customizable, so you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking!

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
4 pita bread pockets
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 tomato, diced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup lettuce, shredded
¼ cup feta cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon tahini (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken breasts with this mixture and set aside.
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, and oregano. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Warm the pita bread in the oven for a few minutes or on a dry skillet.
To assemble, place a few slices of chicken in each pita pocket, then top with cucumber, tomato, onion, lettuce, and a sprinkle of feta cheese if desired.
Drizzle with the yogurt sauce and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes 4 chicken pitas.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Grilled Veggie Version: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to give your chicken pitas a spicy twist.
Herbed Chicken: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley in the seasoning mix to elevate the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken, warm it in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also warm the pita bread if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pita bread?

Yes, store-bought pita bread works perfectly well for this recipe. Just make sure to warm it slightly before using.

2. Can I make the yogurt sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the yogurt sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

3. Can I use a different protein besides chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled lamb, beef, or even falafel for a vegetarian option.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.

5. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add hot sauce, chili flakes, or spicy mustard to the yogurt sauce or season the chicken with extra paprika and cayenne pepper for heat.

6. What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add sliced olives, avocado, or pickled vegetables for added texture and flavor.

7. Can I freeze the cooked chicken for later use?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s properly stored in an airtight container.

8. What can I serve with Chicken Pitas?

You can serve chicken pitas with a side of fries, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pita bread or even lettuce wraps if you’re avoiding gluten.

10. How can I make this recipe more filling?

Add more vegetables such as roasted sweet potatoes, beans, or quinoa to make the pitas more substantial.

Conclusion

Chicken Pitas are a quick, delicious, and versatile meal that can be customized to your preferences. With tender, flavorful chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy yogurt sauce all tucked into a soft pita pocket, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a casual meal, lunch, or dinner, Chicken Pitas offer a satisfying and healthy way to enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired meal.