Greek Chicken Pita with Tzatziki Sauce is a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings the essence of Greece to your plate. With tender, seasoned chicken wrapped in soft pita bread and topped with creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce, this meal is perfect for any occasion. It combines the warm, savory flavors of grilled chicken with the cool, tangy taste of cucumber and yogurt sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Whether served as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even at a gathering, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and sure to impress. The zesty tzatziki sauce brings a burst of flavor, while the tender chicken adds protein and substance to make this a complete and delicious meal. Perfect for those looking for something flavorful yet healthy, Greek Chicken Pita with Tzatziki Sauce is an all-time favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (strained)
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 pita bread pockets
- Fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, lettuce, red onions, or cucumbers)
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions:
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Kalamata olives, sliced
- Pickled red onions for extra zing
Preparation
Step 1: Start by preparing the chicken. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well mixed. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Step 2: While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dill. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the garlic and lemon juice to your preference. Once mixed, refrigerate the tzatziki sauce to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown with grill marks. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for the same amount of time.
Step 4: While the chicken cooks, warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or in the oven for 1-2 minutes. You can also lightly toast the pita for extra crunch.
Step 5: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 6: Assemble the pitas. Take one pita bread and spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce in the center. Add a handful of the sliced chicken, and top with fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, or onions. You can also add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, or pickled red onions for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Step 7: Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Variation
For a different spin, you can swap the grilled chicken for grilled lamb, beef, or even falafel for a vegetarian option. You can also add a drizzle of tahini sauce for a nutty flavor. To make the dish lighter, you can use whole wheat or low-carb pita pockets or wrap the ingredients in large lettuce leaves for a grain-free alternative. For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding roasted red peppers or roasted eggplant to the pita, or even a spicy harissa sauce to complement the tanginess of the tzatziki.
Cooking Notes
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tzatziki sauce or substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with garlic, lemon, and herbs. However, homemade tzatziki is highly recommended for the best flavor.
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate and results in a juicier, more flavorful chicken. If possible, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- For a smokier flavor, grill the chicken on an outdoor barbecue. You can also cook the chicken using a rotisserie method for even more tenderness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Greek Chicken Pita with Tzatziki Sauce is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It pairs beautifully with a side of Greek salad, which can include ingredients like olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. You can also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or crispy fries to make the meal more substantial. For a complete Mediterranean experience, pair the meal with a refreshing glass of iced tea, a lemony beverage, or a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Tips
- If you don’t have fresh dill for the tzatziki sauce, dried dill can be used, but fresh dill will give the sauce a more vibrant flavor.
- For added richness, substitute some of the olive oil with mayonnaise in the tzatziki sauce.
- If you want a quicker marinade, use a zip-lock bag and massage the chicken with the marinade, allowing it to soak in the flavors more quickly.
- Make sure to slice the chicken against the grain for the most tender bites.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes (including marinating)
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving (depends on the size of the chicken breast and pita)
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more flavor and tenderness to the pita. Simply cook them the same way, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. Can I make the tzatziki sauce in advance?
Yes, tzatziki sauce can be made a day ahead. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use.
3. Can I use a different type of bread?
While pita bread is traditional, you can use flatbreads, wraps, or even tortillas as alternatives. You can also serve the ingredients as a salad over a bed of greens.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is not gluten-free as it uses pita bread, which contains gluten. However, you can use gluten-free pita or wraps to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more spice, try adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce in the pita, or mix some chili flakes into the tzatziki sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Pita with Tzatziki Sauce is a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. The combination of marinated grilled chicken, creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies makes it a complete meal, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. With its balanced flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or just looking for a tasty meal option, this recipe will surely become a go-to in your kitchen. So, grab your pita, grill your chicken, and enjoy this delicious and wholesome dish today!