Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Pita and Feta Recipe

Experience the vibrant and rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Pita and Feta recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of juicy grilled chicken, warm pita bread, and fresh toppings like cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and tangy feta cheese. It’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a delicious meal prep option, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s packed with nutrients, high in protein, and bursting with zesty, herbaceous flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Assembly

• 4 pita breads
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Nutritional Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To achieve a flavorful and tender grilled chicken, start with a simple yet aromatic marinade. Here’s how:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the bowl and ensure they’re thoroughly coated with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavors, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Grilling brings out the best in the marinated chicken, giving it a smoky and slightly charred taste.

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Discard any leftover marinade.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Warm the Pita Breads

Warm pita bread enhances the meal’s overall texture and flavor.

1. Place the pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet over medium heat.
2. Warm each side for 1-2 minutes, or until the pita is soft and pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now comes the fun part – assembling your Mediterranean masterpiece.

1. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
2. Lay a warm pita bread flat on a plate.
3. Add a generous portion of sliced chicken on top.
4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion over the chicken.
5. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the assembled pita sandwiches immediately while the chicken and pita are warm. Pair them with a side of tzatziki sauce or a simple Mediterranean salad for an authentic touch.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and quality feta cheese make a world of difference in flavor.
2. Grill Marks: To get perfect grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too much while it’s cooking.
3. Adjust the Marinade: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap parsley with fresh mint for a unique twist.
4. Meal Prep: Grill extra chicken and store it for quick meals throughout the week.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pita with gluten-free pita or lettuce wraps.

Benefits of Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Pita and Feta

1. Nutrient-Packed: This dish is high in protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, offering a balanced meal.
2. Heart-Healthy: Olive oil and lean chicken are staples of the Mediterranean diet, known for its cardiovascular benefits.
3. Versatile: The ingredients can be modified to suit dietary preferences, such as adding cucumbers, olives, or tahini.
4. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and just as flavorful. Adjust the grilling time accordingly.

2. What can I use instead of a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, use a stovetop grill pan or bake the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese, roasted vegetables, or falafel.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Pita and Feta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey to the heart of Mediterranean cuisine. With its fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and deliciously satisfying flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress your family and friends.

Make it today and savor the wholesome goodness of the Mediterranean on your plate. Bon appétit!