Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets a Taste of Sunshine

Recipe Introduction

Craving Sunshine?

Fancy a quick trip to the Mediterranean? Ever wondered what a pita sandwich could really taste like? This recipe is your passport.

Think sunshine, fresh flavours, and a "right proper" delicious lunch. Honestly, it’s pure bliss!

Greek Pita Goodness: Quick and Easy

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pita Bread Recipe has its roots in sunny Greece. It brings that Greek Recipes vibe straight to your kitchen.

It's dead easy too, even for kitchen newbies. Prep takes 20 minutes. Cooking? Just 15. Plus, that 30 minutes marinating time is mainly just waiting time! This recipe makes 4 fully loaded chicken pita pockets.

Perfect for sharing, or not.

Healthy Pita Sandwich : Your New Go-To

This healthy pita sandwich is packed with goodness. Lean protein from the chicken keeps you full. All those fresh veggies give you a "cheeky" vitamin boost.

It's spot on for a quick lunch ideas at work, a picnic, or even a light dinner. It's seriously special because it's so customizable.

What You'll Need for Your Pita Sandwich

Let’s gather the troops, or rather, the ingredients. Honestly, this isn't difficult, a piece of cake!.

Grilled Chicken Recipe Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (that's about 30ml)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml, bottled is fine if you're in a pinch)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (2g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (0.5g, freshly ground if you’re feeling fancy)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (450g)

Pita Recipes : The Main Event

• 4 Homemade Pita Bread or store-bought (approx. 6-7 inch diameter)
• 1/2 cup hummus (120g)
• 1 cup chopped cucumber (150g)
• 1 cup chopped tomato (150g)
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion (75g)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (115g)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (40g)
• Optional: Fresh parsley or mint, chopped, for garnish.

Right then, let’s get down to brass tacks and talk about what you need to make a killer Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets .

This Greek Pita recipe is so easy. It's perfect for a quick lunch idea. Honestly, you’ll be chuffed with how simple it is.

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's run down the list. Don't worry, you probably have most of this stuff already.

Main Ingredients for this Pita Bread Recipe

• For the Chicken Marinade:

  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Quality olive oil makes a difference. Go for extra virgin.
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Freshly squeezed is best. It brightens the whole flavour!
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (approx. 6g) . Fresh garlic is a must. Trust me on this one.
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (2g) . Adds that classic Mediterranean flavour.
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) . Don't be shy with the seasoning.
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) . Freshly ground is ideal.
  • Chicken Breasts: 1 pound, boneless, skinless (450g) . Get good quality chicken. Free range if you can.

• For the Pita Pockets:

  • Pita Breads: 4 (approx. 6-7 inch diameter) . Look for soft and pliable pitas. Homemade Pita Bread is amazing if you have the time.
  • Hummus: 1/2 cup (120g) . store-bought is fine, but homemade is even better!
  • Cucumber: 1 cup, chopped (150g) . Adds a lovely crunch.
  • Tomato: 1 cup, chopped (150g) . Use ripe, juicy tomatoes.
  • Red Onion: 1/2 cup, thinly sliced (75g) . Adds a bit of bite.
  • Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled (115g) . Salty and delicious.
  • Kalamata Olives: 1/4 cup, pitted and halved (40g) . Adds a Mediterranean twist.
  • Optional: Fresh Parsley or Mint, chopped, for garnish.

Seasoning Notes

Want to really make that chicken pita pop? Don't skimp on the herbs! A little dried oregano is classic for Greek Recipes .

A dash of smoked paprika in the marinade gives it a lovely depth. You can use any kind of herbs that you like.

Experiment and have fun!

Equipment Needed

Honestly, you don't need loads of fancy gadgets for this healthy pita sandwich . Just the basics will do.

• Grill or Grill Pan.
• Mixing Bowl.
• Cutting Board.
• Knife.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups.

Right, let's get down to business with the Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets ! Honestly, who doesn't love a good pita sandwich ? It's like sunshine in your mouth.

A real taste of the Mediterranean!. Perfect quick lunch ideas for busy days. You know?.

Nailing the Cooking Method

So, the key to a banging chicken pita is all in the cooking, innit? It’s not rocket science, but a few tricks make all the difference.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission!

First, you gotta get organised. Chop your Greek pita fillings - cucumber, tomato, red onion and feta. Mix your marinade: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

About 20 minutes . This is your essential mise en place. Trust me, it saves a shedload of time later on.

And remember, always wash your hands before starting! It’s just good form, you know?

The Grilling: It's showtime!

1. Marinate your chicken: Toss those chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes .
2. Preheat your grill: Get it to medium high heat.
3. Grill the chicken: About 6- 8 minutes per side. The internal temperature must be 165° F ( 74° C) .
4. Rest the chicken: Let it rest for 5 minutes . This keeps it juicy!
5. Slice it up: Cut into thin strips.

Now you're ready to assemble a brilliant healthy pita sandwich .

Pro Tips and Cheeky Hacks

• Don't overcook the chicken! It goes dry and nobody wants that. Use a thermometer!
• Warm your pita bread. Makes them easier to fill and way more enjoyable. A little toast is all you need.
• Prep ahead! Chop your veggies and make the marinade the night before. Saves a right load of time. If you have extra Pita Recipes , I encourage you to try and prepare other recipes also, to be even more time efficient

Honestly, making homemade pita bread can be a game changer. While it takes a bit longer, the fresh taste is unreal.

If you're feeling ambitious, give a Pita Bread Recipe a go! Or, grab some from the shops - no shame in that game, we all have those days.

Recipe Notes for Your Killer Pita Sandwich

Right then, let's chat about some extra bits and bobs for your pita bread recipe . Honestly, these tips can really elevate your Mediterranean sandwich game.

I've learned a few things over the years, and I'm chuffed to share them with you.

Fab Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Pita

Presentation matters, right? I like to pile the filling high in my homemade pita bread . Garnish with a sprig of parsley or mint.

It just makes it look so inviting. For sides, a classic Greek salad works a treat. Or, how about a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a Greek pita ? To drink, a nice cold glass of lemonade or iced tea is spot on.

It gives that sunshine vibe we are looking for.

Smart Storage Tips for Pita Recipes

If you've got leftovers, pop the fillings and pita bread into separate containers. This stops the pita sandwich from getting soggy.

Store the filling in the fridge for up to three days. The pita bread can also be stored at room temperature in a sealed bag.

Reheat the chicken gently in a pan or microwave. Then, assemble your healthy pita sandwich as needed. Freezing isn't recommended as the vegetables can become watery.

Cracking Variations for All Tastes

Fancy a change? Swap out the chicken for grilled halloumi or falafel for a veggie pita sandwich . If you're avoiding dairy, skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

I once tried adding a spoonful of spicy harissa paste. Oh my gosh! It gave the chicken pita a proper kick.

You can also add your spices to the grilled chicken recipe .

Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Day

This pita sandwich is a pretty balanced meal. It’s packed with protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the olive oil and hummus, and vitamins from the veggies.

One serving is about 450 calories. It’s a great option if you are after some quick lunch ideas . You know, something satisfying but not too heavy.

So there you have it. Some extra tips and tricks to make your pita sandwich experience even better. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Now get cooking, you legend!